Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 co-star breaks down in tears as he confirms exit after six years

Richie Anderson revealed he is leaving the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast show. (Image: BBC)

BBC Radio 2 star Richie Anderson has confirmed that he will no longer appear on Breakfast after presenting the travel for six years. On Thursday (December 19), Richie became tearful as he spoke to Zoe Ball about bidding farewell to the team and thanked her for being an "amazing friend".

The Strictly Come Dancing star choked up: “I have had the most amazing six years on this show. It has been so much fun, and I have loved every single second of it.

“It has been so amazing to come here and be accepted by you (Zoe), Tina (Daheley) and the producers.

“I remember when I met Zoe for the first time in the dressing room at It Takes Two, she came in with hugs and it was like I'd known you forever and you have been the most amazing friend.”

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Zoe also became emotional and could be heard crying as she said she is “so proud” of Richie.

READ MORE: Zoe Ball drops three-word 'BBC Radio 2 exit statement' as star pays tribute

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The BBC has confirmed that Richie will remain in the BBC Radio 2 family but will present afternoons instead.

A spokesperson said: "From January, Richie Anderson will be waving goodbye to the early alarm call as he moves to afternoons on Radio 2."

It comes as Zoe will host her final BBC Radio 2 Breakfast show tomorrow (Friday, December 20) after six years at the helm.

She will also remain on the station and more details about her new job will be announced in the new year.

In November, Zoe announced: "After six incredible years on the Radio 2 Breakfast Show, it’s time for me to step away from the very early mornings and focus on family."

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The decision comes after a difficult year for Zoe. Her beloved mother, Julia, died in April, just 12 weeks after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

Scott Mills will be Zoe's replacement, moving from his afternoon show slot on the station.

Zoe said she was thrilled that Scott would be filling her shoes, telling her listeners: "Scott and I go way back to our Radio 1 days, when he was doing early mornings before me. He’s been a close friend for years, and I’m beyond thrilled it’s him taking over the Breakfast Show.

"Breakfast has always been his dream. He’s not only a blooming brilliant producer but one of the best in radio. I can’t wait to tune in on the school run!”

Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 co-star breaks down in tears as he confirms exit after six years

Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 co-star breaks down in tears as he confirms exit after six years

Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 co-star breaks down in tears as he confirms exit after six years

Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 co-star breaks down in tears as he confirms exit after six years

Zoe Ball's BBC Radio 2 co-star breaks down in tears as he confirms exit after six years