New afternoon show for BBC Ulster

Alan Simpson, the very tall and very talkative Portrush man will take over the 3.00 to 5.00pm slot after his summer cover work received a positive response from listeners.

His appointment is the latest in a series of schedule changes at the station, aimed at helping Radio Ulster continue to offer what they describe as the best in programmes, presenters and choice for listeners.

Head of Radio Ulster, Susan Lovell, says: "BBC Radio Ulster has had one of its best years ever – with more people listening than ever before. I look forward to Alan becoming part of our great success story and part of our listeners' lives.

"Alan is a natural entertainer with great warmth and wit, a fresh tone and strong local connections. His new afternoon show will continue BBC Radio Ulster's tradition of giving our listeners the very best presentation talent in just the right slot.

"Here you'll find not only entertainment and great music, but also a sense of the social pulse of Northern Ireland, what's on and what's worth talking about."

Alan has been in the entertainment business for around 20 years now and is known for his work with one of Northern Ireland's best known nightclubs and for hosting events such as the Milk Cup, Irish Cup Finals and international matches, the Portrush Raft Race, the International Air Show, the recent Fatboy Slim Beach Party and a range of charity events.

Alan's Radio Ulster programme will be a two-hour lively entertainment and music programme with live studio guests and music performances.

Alan says: "Not in my wildest dreams did I think my two week run on BBC Radio Ulster would result in me getting a contract. I thought I'd be lucky if they let me become a tea boy.

"Needless to say I am absolutely ecstatic and over the moon at being given this huge opportunity and I can't wait to strike up a relationship with BBC Radio Ulster listeners and hopefully be welcomed into their everyday lives.

"I won't necessarily be rifling through Hugo's CDs, but I hope plenty of his listeners stay on to listen to me.

"I'm really chuffed that I, a Portrush man, am being given the chance to chat to people from all over on a day-to-day basis and it's such a privilege for me to be joining a great team of presenters on the most listened to station in the Northern Ireland."

Peter Johnston, Head of Broadcasting, BBC Northern Ireland, says: "We are delighted to welcome Alan to the BBC Radio Ulster team. He is a fresh new talent on the airwaves and his friendly, funny nature won him plenty of fans when he was last on air here.

"We're sure he will become a valued and popular presenter on BBC Radio Ulster."

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