Clare Balding to host BBC Radio 2 morning show

Clare Balding (Getty Images)

Clare Balding is to join BBC Radio 2, replacing regular Sunday morning host Aled Jones who is leaving his show.

Balding, who came to the fore during the Olympics, recently signed a deal with Channel 4 as a result of the BBC losing the broadcast rights to her beloved horse racing.

But she is continuing to work on some BBC projects and will take over the "faith" slot, Good Morning Sunday, on Radio 2 from January.

Jones has hosted the show for six years - since replacing Don Maclean - but last month took over as the host of ITV1's morning show Daybreak, alongside Lorraine Kelly.

Balding said: "I grew up listening to Terry Wogan on Radio 2 with my mum and I couldn't be prouder to join a station that boasts a host of brilliant, iconic broadcasters.

"I am thrilled to be asked to be a part of the Radio 2 family and look forward to sharing Sunday mornings with listeners who know their eggs from their onions, who enjoy music, conversation and sharing ideas.

"I'm also looking forward to exploring the whole nature of faith and why it's so important in people's lives.

"I have never presented my own radio show so this is a huge moment for me - a challenge, a responsibility and a very exciting development in my career. I can't wait to get started."

PA