KEN Bruce has admitted he’s “struggling” following his exit from Radio 2 after 30 years.
The legendary host is facing a change to his schedule after taking on a new job at Bauer’s Greatest Hits Radio.
Ken Bruce in his old BBC Radio 2 studio
He’s used to presenting from 9.30am to midday on the BBC, but will now be on air from 10am to 1pm.
‘”I’m struggling to work my day out,” said Ken.
“I think I’m going to be going to bed an hour later because I just have to squeeze everything into the remaining hours of the day.
“Once I get my body clock, right. I think I’ll be all right, but I’m really enjoying having a half-hour extra in bed every morning.”
From 10.30am today – Monday, April 3 – Ken can be heard on the airwaves of his new station Greatest Hits Radio.
His popular quiz Popmaster will air at the same time from 10.30am to 10.50am.
He hopes listeners will follow him over from the BBC to the rival channel after he’s replaced by Vernon Kay.
It’s after the 71-year-old turned down a new contract after becoming concerned by the corporation’s drive for younger talent.
His departure comes in the wake of a series of top talent being edged out including Steve Wright, 68, Paul O’Grady, 67, Vanessa Feltz, 60, and Simon Mayo, 64.
A source told The Celeb Report: “Ken is Europe’s most listened-to DJ and has nothing left to prove at the BBC.
“He’s had an incredible time working there and is so grateful for the loyalty of all his listeners.
“But in recent years, there’s been a noticeable shift in direction, with a drive to attract a younger audience.
“The music has become edgier and more modern and the DJs seemingly ever-younger, which is a bit concerning for the old guard.
“Ken is still hugely ambitious and the BBC actually offered him a new deal.
“But after some months of negotiations, he decided the time was right for new opportunities.
“The fact he is taking Popmaster with him is a real coup for Greatest Hits — and a hammer blow for the Beeb. The very real fear is that listeners will leave in their droves.”
Ken Bruce quit Radio 2 after becoming concerned by the BBC’s drive for younger talent
Ken Bruce has presented his mid-morning show since 1986
