Zoe Ball has announced she is stepping down as host of the Radio 2 breakfast show to be replaced by Scott Mills. The 53-year-old said she is planning to “start a new chapter” in her career, which has seen her become the first female host of Radio 1 and Radio 2’s breakfast shows and appear as a contestant on Strictly Come Dancing.

BBC Radio 2 presenter Zoe Ball has revealed that Scott Mills will take over her breakfast show as she steps down after six years “to focus on family”. Announcing her departure on air on Tuesday, she told listeners: “I’ve decided it’s time to step away from the early alarm call and start a new chapter.

Zoe Ball announced on air this morning on Radio 2 and BBC Sounds that she has decided to step down as presenter of the weekday Radio 2 Breakfast Show in December. Zoe will remain on the station, more to be announced soon.