Countryfile star Margherita Taylor has enjoyed a career in broadcasting since the early 90s. However, she found a rather unusual route into her career when she won a competition.
Having wanted to pursue a career in broadcasting she did try and follow a traditional path into the business. The 51-year-old graduated with a degree in Media and Communications at the University of Central England (now Birmingham City University).
However, she ultimately "won" her career when she took part in a radio contest which provided the break she needed. Having emerged victorious from all the contestants her prize was the opportunity to work at her local radio station.
"I hit it lucky by winning a Search for a Star competition run by the Birmingham-based radio station BRMB. I had always been into television but I fell in love with radio," she told The Guardian.
Her talents were quickly noticed and it wasn't long before she was London-bound after impressing bosses. "The station was owned by Capital and they asked if I would like to work in London," she told the publication.
"I jumped at the chance since I grew up listening to Capital. Walking into their Euston Tower studios for the first time seemed like walking into a radio Mecca," she gushed.
In 1994 and she was made presenter of weekend breakfast on the station, and also often provided cover for Capital's other presenters.
She was the longest serving member of the on-air team until it came to an end in 2011.
She also accomplished her goal of working in television as in 1999 she became one of the original presenters of Channel 4's T4.
Don't miss...
BBC presenter's arrest fears as police stop filming outside Buckingham Palace [INSIGHT]
Strictly Come Dancing needs to have 'huge reset' as 'tension' is ruining show [EXCLUSIVE]
Zoe Ball's heartbreak over Woody 'revelation' after comment left her 'so upset' [EXCLUSIVE]
She was in good company presenting alongside the then up-and-coming Dermot O'Leary and later Vernon Kay. She stayed for three years, leaving in January 2002.
She now has the best of both worlds and works as the drivetime presenter for Classic FM while regularly presenting TV shows.
She has also been involved in huge moments on-screen, having introduced then-Prince Charles at Party in the Park in 2004.
In recognition of her long career, which began with that competition win, she was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 2022 New Year Honours for services to broadcasting and diversity.
