Sonia Deol to present new weekday show on BBC Asian Network

Sonia Deol is to front the 10am-12.30pm, Monday – Friday on BBC Asian Network it has been announced today.

Sonia, who currently presents a Friday afternoon show on the station, will move to the new weekday slot from Monday 8 February.

The Asian Network has also confirmed that weekend breakfast presenter, Tommy Sandhu is to takeover the drivetime slot (3pm-6pm).

Sonia says: “The Asian Network audience and I have grown up together, so I’m really excited about my new show. It’s going to be fun, real, sometimes cheeky, and ‘must listen to’ radio, even though starting on my birthday means I've had to cancel Akshay Kumar taking me out for the day, but I'd much rather be in the Asian Network studio broadcasting to the nation. Ok, that last bit isn't strictly true!!”

Tommy says: “Wow – the drive show at Asian Network – I’m so pleased!
As the show is all about getting people home from work or school safely…then the listeners will be glad to know the journey will be smooth and I have got room for everybody! All are welcome to hop on board the new ‘drive show tractor’ for a desi ride like no other!”

Vijay Sharma, Head of BBC Asian Network, says: “Bringing Sonia and Tommy into the heart of our daytime schedule gives us one of the most talented and engaging presenter line-ups not just on Asian Radio but on all Radio across the UK.”

Andy Parfitt, Controller, BBC Asian Network, adds: “These changes are part of our long term strategy for the Asian Network to re-focus the station on a broader family audience.”

Nihal who is on afternoons from Monday to Thursday (1pm-3pm) will now add Fridays to his schedule.

As a result of the changes, current morning presenter Nikki Bedi leaves the station after nearly six years.

Andy Parfitt says: “I thank Nikki for her excellent contribution to the station over many years, I wish her well for the future and will be helping her develop her BBC radio career.”

Jas Rao, who currently presents drivetime will continue to work on projects for the network.

The changes come into effect from 8 February 2010.