BBC Radio 1 revamps Nations shows

BBC Radio 1 has revamped its Nations programming strand, including new presenters for the shows in Scotland and Wales.

From January 9 next year, the radio station's current two-hour show that supports underground music from England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland will move from Wednesday (into Thursday) 12-2am to Sunday in the same timeslot.

For the first time, Radio 1 will also simulcast one in three of the shows across a nation and England on a rotational basis. The move is designed to allow each of the three DJs from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to boost their show's profile to a wider audience.

Alongside Northern Ireland's Rory McConnell, 23-year-old Ally McCrae will join Radio 1 to present the show in Scotland, while 25-year-old Jen Long will front the Wales programme.

Long is a broadcast assistant on the current Wales show, while McCrae previously managed the student radio station at Stirling University.

"The BBC Trust asked us to appeal to the next generation of young audiences, and within that to look for the next generation of new talent - and Ally and Jen are just that," said Ben Cooper, deputy controller of Radio 1.

"Ally's enthusiasm and local knowledge is extremely impressive, so we look forward to him bringing this to Radio 1 and Jen's passion for music and experience will ensure the show continues to champion the best in new music coming out of Wales."

As a result of the changes, Scotland's Vic Galloway and Wales' Bethan Elfyn will leave Radio 1 after 11 years at the station. However, the two presenters will continue to work within the BBC, at Radio Scotland and Radio Wales respectively.

Cooper said: "I'd like to thank Vic and Bethan for their passion and commitment to unearthing new music in Scotland and Wales respectively. They've made a great contribution to the station and we wish them well for the future."

The new Nations show will replace the two-hour catch-up zone on Sundays, while Huw Stephens will present a programme in the vacant Wednesday late night slot.