TV presenter and comic Paddy McGuinness said he is 'excited' to join fellow Boltonians on the airwaves as his new show launches this Sunday.
Paddy will start his weekly show on Radio 2 on Sunday (June 2).
He will be taking over the slot from Michael Ball who will become the new presenter of Love Songs, following the tragic death of legendary radio broadcaster Steve Wright.
Paddy said: “I can’t tell you how excited I’ve been about joining the amazing BBC Radio 2!
"I’ve been having a lot of fun with the production team, thinking up great new features, working out what music we’ll play and, of course, how we’ll involve the brilliant listeners every week."
He added:" I’m so proud to be joining my fellow Boltonians – Sara Cox, Mark Radcliffe and Vernon Kay – on the station, but the Radio 2 presenting family have all been so welcoming, they are truly the loveliest bunch of people.
"What’s more, I’ll be presenting my show just down the road in the studios at MediaCity in Salford. Can it get any better than this!”
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Michael said: “I just want to wish Good Luck to Paddy! For nearly ten years now, I've absolutely loved doing that show, but I couldn’t be happier handing it over to Paddy. I know he’ll take good care of it and also bring his own special gifts to the programme.”
Steve died in February at the age of 69 and Michael hailed him as “an icon”.
He said: “When this opportunity arrived, I knew I couldn’t turn it down. I’m so nervous, but of course I’m also incredibly excited.
“I want to do the show justice because Steve was and still is such an icon. He showcased the best of what radio is and the enjoyment it could bring to countless people.
“I loved Steve’s Sunday Love Songs, I loved to listen to it when I woke up on a Sunday morning. It really was an appointment to listen, so I’m incredibly honoured and humbled that they’ve asked me to have a go.
He said: “When this opportunity arrived, I knew I couldn’t turn it down. I’m so nervous, but of course I’m also incredibly excited.
“I want to do the show justice because Steve was and still is such an icon. He showcased the best of what radio is and the enjoyment it could bring to countless people.
“I loved Steve’s Sunday Love Songs, I loved to listen to it when I woke up on a Sunday morning. It really was an appointment to listen, so I’m incredibly honoured and humbled that they’ve asked me to have a go.
Paddy was a guest on Michael's final show last Sunday.
Speaking on the show Michael said: ‘We are thrilled you are joining the Radio 2 family… I’m sure the listeners are going to love being with you every Sunday and I’m thrilled to be your warm up act.’
Paddy responded: ‘Michael I’m looking being the filling in a Michael Ball and Elaine Paige sandwich.’
Michael: ‘Dreams do come true Paddy!’
Love Songs with Michael Ball (9-11am) and Paddy McGuinness’ new show (11am-1pm) are both starting on Sunday June 2 on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Sounds.
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