Benji B to replace Hobbs on BBC Radio 1

The BBC has announced that Radio 1Xtra DJ Benji B will take over the long-running late night Radio 1 show held by the outgoing Mary Anne Hobbs.

In July, Hobbs confirmed her intention to quit Radio 1 after 14 years to take up a teaching post at the University of Sheffield.

Benji B will step in to present her regular Thursday evening show from 2am to 4am, starting on October 14.

He currently hosts a Sunday night show on Radio 1Xtra between 10pm and 1am playing a mix of house, hip-hop, dubstep, beats and electronic music. His final 1Xtra show will be on October 10.

"I've loved every minute of my eight years at 1Xtra and am delighted to be given this incredible opportunity," said Benji B.

"I can't wait to bring the essence of my Sunday night show and my loyal audience to my new Radio 1 programme."

BBC Radio 1 deputy controller Ben Cooper added: "Benji B's reputation for finding and supporting new cutting-edge music is exemplary, and I'm excited about him being able to put his own mark on the slot by bringing some of the finest cutting-edge dub step and experimental electronica to our audiences."

Replacing Benji B's programme on 1Xtra will be Target's 100% Homegrown show, which previously aired every Sunday between 7pm and 10pm.

Also in the changes, My Top Ten will run in the 7pm hour offering playlists created by selected 1Xtra artists, before an hour of beats from 8pm. A new documentary strand, titled Radio 1Xtra's Stories, will then run from 9pm to 10pm.