Ken Bruce has signed off as a BBC Radio 2 presenter for the final time.
The 72-year-old Scottish presenter – who has presented his mid-morning programme from 9.30am to midday for more than 30 years - has just completed his final show.
Bruce was serenaded with a host of well wishes and messages of thanks from listeners, co-hosts and guests throughout the morning as he broadcast for the final time on the BBC.
In a subdued on-air farewell, Bruce said it had been an honor working for the BBC which he described as the "finest broadcaster in the world".
He thanked the production team and listeners saying: "I couldn't do what I do without the listeners".
Thank you Ken and congratulations on fantastic career at the BBC! 🧡 pic.twitter.com/jMHHKT1tgL
— BBC Radio 2 (@BBCRadio2) March 3, 2023
His final song was Golden Slumber by The Beatles.
In his final words on BBC Radio 2 show, he said: "I have loved my time here with you, maybe we will meet again somewhere."
Fans also took to social media to say thank you to Bruce for his time at the BBC and share their fond memories of him.
One listener, on Twitter, said: "An absolute master of his craft, the voice and humour of my working week, and a significant factor in life, particularly during recent years & lockdown.
"I simply love the man, his whit and genuine compassion. As such Thank You @RealKenBruce."
Another said: "End of an era - mum Julia and dad David listen to your show on a daily basis for years on @BBCRadio2 and I've listened while I can.
"They never miss Popmaster! @RealKenBruce you'll be missed by many thanks for all the memories."
Ken Bruce and his time at the BBC
Bruce first joined the corporation in 1977 in his 30s as a BBC Radio Scotland presenter, going on to present several different programmes.
His first regular slot on Radio 2 was the Saturday Late Show in 1984, and the following year he fronted the Radio 2 Breakfast Show, taking over from Sir Terry Wogan.
Bruce later moved to mid-mornings in 1986 and after a brief stint on late nights and early mornings, returned to mid-mornings in January 1992.
Bruce was originally meant to be leaving Radio 2 at the end of the month, however the BBC brought forward his finishing date to today.
I will be presenting my last show on Radio 2 next Friday. I had intended fulfilling my contract until the end of March but the BBC has decided it wants me to leave earlier. Let’s enjoy the week ahead!
— Ken Bruce (@RealKenBruce) February 24, 2023
In an interview with BBC Radio 4 Today he said he was a “little surprised and disappointed” at the decision.
Bruce said: "It's entirely within the BBC's rights to ask me to step away a little early.
"But for the sake of 17 days, which was all that was remaining. I would have finished on the 24th anyway, so it seems a shame.
“For the sake of 17 days… it seems a shame” Broadcaster Ken Bruce on the early exit from Radio 2 after 31 years on the station He presents his final show this morning Full interview: https://t.co/i1xJfF6CNO#R4Today pic.twitter.com/VL117ACvFj
— BBC Radio 4 Today (@BBCr4today) March 3, 2023
Responding to Ken's comments a BBC spokesperson said: "Ken decided to leave Radio 2 and it's always been known he's leaving in March.
"Returning to Wogan House [R2's HQ] for a week after a month of broadcasting the Piano Room sessions at Maida Vale provided a natural break.
"We wish Ken all the best for the future."
Where is Ken Bruce going?
The presenter will be moving to Bauer’s Greatest Hits Radio in April to present a new mid-morning show from 10am to 1pm.
Greatest Hits Radio, in post on Twitter, said: "We’ve been keeping a big secret.
"We are delighted to announce that legendary broadcaster @RealKenBruce will be joining the Greatest Hits Radio family in April."
We’ve been keeping a big secret … We are delighted to announce that legendary broadcaster @RealKenBruce will be joining the Greatest Hits Radio family in April. pic.twitter.com/Wpjj9uIXH9
— Greatest Hits Radio (@greatesthitsuk) January 17, 2023
Bruce added: "Greatest hits radio plays what it says it does, greatest hits.
"I love playing big tunes, big hits, lovely music, so it's the prefect place for me.
"I've done everything that is possible at Radio 2, I've had some great times, but it's just time to try something a little bit different."
Who is replacing Ken Bruce?
Vernon Kay will take over from Bruce on BBC Radio 2 at a date yet to be announced.
Gary Davies, host of the station’s Sounds Of The 80s, will present the mid-morning show from March 6 until Kay takes over the helm.
Vernon Kay said he was over the moon to be taking over the role.
On BBC Radio 2, Kay said: "I'm absolutely over the moon to be handed the microphone to present the mid-morning show on Radio 2.
"And what an honour to be following in the footsteps of the mighty Ken Bruce.
"It's a dream come true to join the Radio 2 family and I can't wait to start."
