Angela Scanlon’s BBC Radio 2 Drivetime show to launch later this month

Irish presenter Angela Scanlon is to launch her BBC Radio 2 Drivetime show later this month.

The 42-year-old will replace Sara Cox, who has moved on to present the station’s breakfast show, in the slot which runs from 4pm to 7pm on November 16.

She said: “I’ve been counting down to this one. From 4pm on Monday November 16, when the day finally exhales, it’s you, me and whoever else is lurking in your car, train or kitchen.

“So whatever kind of day you’ve had, bring it with you, the rants, the wins and the dinner disasters. I’m here for all of it.”

It comes after she stood in as the show’s presenter earlier this year in what she called “a little summer fling” when her permanent role was announced.

Speaking on Cox’s breakfast show, Scanlon said: “I feel like I had a little summer fling, and it was all fun, but we only got to know the best of each other.

“And I want warts and all, like I want to know the listeners’ dirty little secrets, I can’t wait. We’re going steady now, or at least that’s the plan.”

Regular features on the programme will include All Request Friday, which sees Scanlon play listeners’ song choices, as well as reading their stories and dedications.

When her role was announced, she added: “Taking over Radio 2 Drivetime is properly exciting. Millions of people, all having completely different days, piling into the same conversation for a few hours – what a strange and lovely thing!

“Every weekday, I’ll be in your ears, your cars and your kitchens – on the school run, on the way home, or standing at the hob wondering what on earth to feed a small but hungry mob.

“I want all of it, the stories, the opinions, the chaos, the tiny triumphs and the things you probably shouldn’t admit on national radio.

“And to be wedged between Trevor Nelson and Jo Whiley – two absolute radio legends – is quite the sandwich. I cannot wait to get stuck in. We’re going to have a lot of fun.”

It comes after Scanlon stood in as host on the show earlier this year (Ian West/PA)

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Travel updates on the show will be provided by Kirsten O’Brien and Bobbie Pryor, while there will also be a news and sport slot.

Earlier this year, Scanlon was also part of the BBC’s Eurovision coverage alongside Rylan Clark, hosted The Apprentice spin-off Unfinished Business on BBC Two, and has previously presented ITV’s This Morning.

Scanlon made her Radio 2 debut on the Sunday early breakfast show from 2018 to 2021, and has also provided cover for other programmes.