Alex Jones to host Radio 2 teatime show

BBC presenter Alex Jones is set to become the new host of Radio 2’s weekday teatime programme from Monday 29 June, although her stint in the slot is expected to be short-lived.

Jones will take over the 4pm-7pm show on an interim basis as the station prepares for a wider schedule reshuffle. However, industry insiders say she is unlikely to remain in the role permanently due to a scheduling clash with her existing television commitments.

The presenter currently fronts The One Show on BBC One, which begins at 7pm each weekday, making it impractical for her to continue hosting the Radio 2 programme long-term. She is, however, favourite to take on Emma Willis’ Saturday lunchtime show when Strictly launches in September.

The move comes as Sara Cox prepares to leave the teatime slot. This week is understood to be Cox’s final week presenting the programme before she moves to the Radio 2 Breakfast Show, with Monday 29 June widely expected to mark the launch date of her new morning programme.

Veteran broadcaster Mark Goodier will step in to cover the teatime show next week during the transition period before Jones takes over.

BBC Radio 2 is expected to announce a permanent replacement for Cox in the afternoon slot in the coming weeks. No details have yet been released about who will ultimately succeed her, although speculation within broadcasting circles is already mounting.

Jones is one of the BBC’s most recognisable presenters, having co-hosted The One Show since 2010. Her temporary move to Radio 2 is expected to provide continuity for listeners while the station finalises its longer-term plans for the weekday schedule.

Further announcements on the refreshed Radio 2 line-up are anticipated shortly.