Martin Geissler is to host Drivetime on BBC Radio Scotland for three days a week following the departure of John Beattie.
Fiona Stalker will continue to present the show on Thursdays and Fridays, with Martin taking on Monday to Wednesday.
Martin and Fiona have been working together on the station’s Sunday Show since its launch in February 2021. The two-hour show airs from 10am until 12 noon, with Martin presenting the first half hour, which broadcasts simultaneously on BBC One Scotland and on BBC Radio Scotland.
From 10.30am Fiona takes the helm for remainder of the show, as it continues on BBC Radio Scotland.
Gary Smith, Head of News and Current Affairs, BBC Scotland, says: “Martin is a hugely experienced journalist who brings many years of reporting and presenting, both on radio and television, to this role. He has an in-depth knowledge of the news agenda and an impressive track record on news-making interviews.
“Martin and Fiona are outstanding journalists who will deliver great content for our audiences going into what will undoubtedly be a significant year in news, politics and beyond.”
Martin says: “John Beattie’s shoes are big, metaphorically as well as literally. I’m honoured to have been given the opportunity to step into them. Together with a wonderfully talented team, John Beattie has given the Drivetime programme a unique style and personality. I plan to build on that and add some of my own experience to the mix.
“2024 will be a huge year for news with elections here in the UK, in the US and in many other major democracies around the world. There are conflicts, climate change and the impact of technology to report on.
“On a happier note Scotland and the Tartan Army are heading to the Euros and the Olympics take place in Paris. And that’s just the stuff we already know about.
“A big year for journalism, a big year for all of us. I can’t wait to get started.”
Fiona says: “It’s been an absolute pleasure and a privilege to have worked as part of the Drivetime team with John Beattie since its launch in 2020. He’s literally a giant of broadcasting. His compassion, curiosity and good humour were a daily tonic for both the audience and his colleagues.
“John always made his journalism about our audience. He holds interviewees to account on behalf of our listeners. The respect he showed to colleagues across departments was inspiring. He nurtured talent and celebrated the skills of the team.
“Being part of the Drivetime team in one of the most exciting and challenging of news years is an honour. The production team consistently drives the news agenda – with energy, enthusiasm and of course original journalism. A joy to work alongside.”
This story first appeared on radiotoday.co.uk