Tony Blackburn exits BBC Radio London

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief | 15 December 2023

Tony Blackburn is to leave BBC Radio London this weekend after presenting on the station since the 1980s.

Veteran presenter Tony Blackburn has announced his departure from BBC Radio London, with his final show due to air this weekend.

The 80-year-old - the first ever DJ on Radio 1 when it launched in 1967 - has been with the capital station since 1981 and currently presents a soul and Motown show on Sundays.

Writing on Twitter, he said: "Hi everyone, just thought I'd let you know that after many happy years on @BBCRadioLondon I have decided to leave the station and this Sunday will be my last Soul On Sunday. Over the years we have had a lot of fun with some fantastic live shows for Children in Need and have played some great music.

"I will still be continuing @BBCBerkshire @BBCOxford and @BBCRadioSolent on Sunday afternoon and of course on the great @BBCRadio2. This is totally my decision and thanks to the many happy years there, but time to move on. Thanks for listening."

A BBC spokesperson told RadioToday: "Tony has been a huge part of BBC Radio London for a long time and we'd like to thank him for everything he has done for the station.

"He very much remains a valued part of the wider BBC Radio family and will continue to broadcast as usual across BBC Radio Berkshire, Oxford & Solent, and nationally on his BBC Radio 2 show at the weekend."

Blackburn's final episode of Soul On Sunday goes out this Sunday at 6pm on BBC Radio London.

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