Jo Whiley set to be the first female presenter on BBC Radio 2’s daytime schedule since 1998

RADIO 2 is making a number of schedule changes that will take place in spring this year.

Among them is Jo Wiley joining Simon Mayo on drivetime, becoming the first female presenter to feature on the station’s regular daytime schedule since 1998.

The pair will join forces from Monday May 14 in a new early evening show from 5pm to 8pm.

The BBC said they will each receive the same salary for the show.

Mayo said: “Although we’ve known each other for over 20 years, we’ve never presented a show together. And given that Jo is quite brilliant, it’s high-time we put that right.”

Whiley added: “What a thrill to be working with Simon on this exciting new show. It’s going to be great fun and listeners can look forward to some incredible music and chat, as well as being introduced to some fantastic new talent along the way. Cannot wait!”

Friday’s programme will remain as All Request Friday from 5pm-7pm, and Tony Blackburn’s The Golden Hour remains from 7pm-8pm.

In other changes to the schedule, Sara Cox will front a brand new Monday to Thursday live show from 10pm to midnight.

Sounds Of The 80s will remain on Friday nights (10pm to midnight) and from Friday 18 May, the show will be hosted by Gary Davies.

Lewis Carnie, Head of Radio 2, says: “These changes herald another stage of the evolution of Radio 2. Simon and Jo are two of the network’s most popular presenters, and I’m delighted that they will unite in this exciting partnership to present a new show. Sara’s new evening show will provide the network, for the first time in many years, with a truly interactive show to end the day.”

A number of shows, however, will be heading for retirement.

The Organist Entertains, Listen To The Band and The Radio 2 Arts Show have all been removed from the new line-up.

Nigel Ogden, who fronts The Organist Entertains on Tuesday nights said:  “I’d like to thank my ever loyal audience for their support and messages during the 38 years I’ve hosted The Organist Entertains.

“I’ve loved hearing from them and send them my very best wishes for the future. I’d also like to thank Radio 2 for giving me the opportunity to play the music I love each week – it has been a huge privilege.”