BBC Radio 2 announces Steve Wright's replacement after Pick of the Pops host's death

BBC Radio 2 has finally announced the new host for Steve Wright's much-loved Pick of the Pops show, following the broadcaster's tragic death in February at the age of 69. Emergency services were called to his Marylebone home after an incident, and despite paramedics' efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Listeners were left devastated by the news of Steve's passing, as many had loyally followed his weekly radio show. The BBC had previously decided to let the presenter go, with his final show scheduled just weeks after his untimely death, sparking rumours that he died of a "broken heart".

Since the announcement, BBC producers have been searching for a suitable temporary replacement. In the meantime, Gary Davies, a seasoned DJ, has been filling in.

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The BBC has now confirmed that Mark Goodier will take over the Saturday afternoon slot from July. Goodier, a friend of Steve's for nearly four decades, expressed his feelings about the role: "It's an honour to host the iconic Pick of the Pops, although I wish it were in happier circumstances as I was friends with Steve for almost 40 years. I can't wait to reminisce with Radio 2 listeners as we revisit two years in their lives, playing some of the best records ever made."

Helen Thomas, head of BBC Radio 2, expressed her excitement about the new lineup: "Mark is a brilliant broadcaster with a particular passion for chart countdowns, so I'm delighted he's making a welcome return to Radio 2 in the prestigious Pick of the Pops slot, to complete our new weekend presenting line-up following the loss of our friend and colleague, Steve. I would also like to thank Gary Davies for presenting Pick of the Pops across these past weeks, in addition to hosting the weekly, must-listen edition of his Sounds of the 80s show each Saturday night.", reports the Mirror.

Mark Goodier, who has been a familiar voice on BBC radio for decades, is set to make a comeback. He's best known for his stint as the host of the UK's top 40 songs on BBC Radio 1, a role he held during the early '90s and again from the mid-'90s to the early 2000s.

Michael Ball will be taking over Wright's Sunday slot with his programme Love Songs with Michael Ball, which moves to the time previously held by Steve. In another exciting change, Bolton's very own Paddy McGuinness is gearing up to launch a brand-new Sunday show from 11am to 1pm, stepping into the shoes of Michael Ball's former slot.