Hayley Hassall has been named as the new presenter of BBC Radio 5 Live’s early morning weekend programme.
She’ll join Dotun Adebayo at MediaCityUK, taking listener calls through the night (1am-5am) at the weekends.
A presenter on Newsround for more than a decade, she’s picked up 2 RTS Awards, a Bafta and Prix Europa for her Panorama documentaries looking into healthcare issues.
Hassall has also been a reporter for The One Show, Sunday Live, Radio 4’s File on 4, and has presented from live sporting events such as the Olympics and Wimbledon.
“I’m extremely excited to be joining 5 Live. It’s the station that surrounds my life, from the moment I wake up in the morning, to catching up with the latest podcasts at night,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to opening up conversations with listeners about what really matters to them. I’m keen to introduce regular listener clinics into the night time slot, focusing on mental health and the personal stories behind the news. I hope to make it a comfortable, inviting place for all.”
Heidi Dawson, controller of BBC Radio 5 Live added:
“I’m so pleased to welcome Hayley Hassall to 5 Live. She is a brilliant broadcaster who has impressed us with her original journalism and reporting expertise. Her warmth and entertaining conversation will also make her a great companion for audiences who want to share their stories.”
Hassall, who was brought up in Blackpool, will present her first show on 11th September.
