Moira Set For BBC Comeback

Although aged 60, and previoulsy 'dropped' by the broadcaster, presenter Moira Stuart is gearing up for a welcome return to the BBC.

The move comes two years after she was dropped from her role in television broadcasting - prompting accusations of ageism.

Stuart, a veteran in broadcasting for decades has joined the line-up for Radio 2's new breakfast show with host Chris Evans and will be announcing regular news bulletins during the programme.

Evans, who has replaced Terry Wogan's primetime slot said: "It doesn't get any better than Moira Stuart. The voice, the authority, the style, the class, plus a side of her the majority of people have never seen before.

"She's funny, she’s cheeky and dare I say it – ever such a little bit naughty. Always brilliant on the telly, I predict she’s going to be even better on the radio. In fact, I know she will be."

Previously a news anchor on Andrew Marr's Sunday morning show, Stewart has also been a key player in presenting BBC's main TV bulletins.

She began her BBC career as a production assistant in Radio's Talks and Documentaries department in the 1970s, before moving into announcing. Stewart was later to become the UK’s first female African-Caribbean newsreader.

She is also noted for presenting Channel 4's Dispatches programme focusing on ageism, receiving an OBE back in 2001 and winning numerous awards including the Women of Achievement Television Personality award.

Stewart is said to be delighted with her new role and commented: "I'm delighted to be joining The Chris Evans Breakfast Show team at Radio 2. We'll certainly have some fun."

Her new role is dubbed, a shrewd move by the BBC who are said to have hired another four new female presenters over the age of 50.

The Chris Evans show runs weekdays from 7am to 9.30am.

(BMcN/BMcC)