Vernon Kay "over the moon" to replace Ken Bruce on Radio 2

Image source, BBC/Comic Relief

By Paul GlynnEntertainment reporter

Vernon Kay will replace presenter Ken Bruce during his mid-morning weekday slot on Radio 2, the BBC has confirmed.

Bruce has announced on air in January that he would be leaving the station after 31 years in the role.

"Vernon is a lovely guy and I wish him all the best" , Bruce told BBC News, adding that he "wouldn't dare give anyone else advice on broadcasting".

Kay, who is known for presenting ITV's All Star Family Fortunes, said taking over the was "a dream come true".

"And what an honor to follow in the footsteps of the mighty Ken Bruce," he added in a statement. "I'm absolutely thrilled to be handed the microphone."

Bruce, who has worked for the BBC for 46 years, announced on Twitter that he was going to perform his last show on March 3.

He tweeted on Friday: "I intended to fulfill my contract until the end of March, but the BBC decided they wanted me to leave early. Let's enjoy the week ahead!"