Former Presenters Rejoin Radio Ulster Ahead of 50th Anniversary

BBC Radio Ulster is set to welcome back several familiar broadcasters in anticipation of its 50th anniversary in January. This initiative coincides with the conclusion of the BBC’s centenary celebrations in Northern Ireland. A total of 10 former presenters will participate alongside current staff, engaging in discussions about their experiences, the significance of radio, and its connection with the audience. Among those scheduled to return to the airwaves are Gloria Hunniford, Wendy Austin, Seamus McKee, and John Daly. On Wednesday, Austin and McKee will make their live comeback on the program Good Morning Ulster. Later that Wednesday, Rose Neill will take a brief break from UTV Live to join Anna Curran on the Afternoon Show, broadcasting from 15:00 to 16:00 GMT. Concluding the day’s special programming, John Daly will converse with Vinny and Cate on their teatime programme between 18:00 and 19:30. On Thursday, Countdown presenter Colin Murray is slated to appear with Hugo Duncan starting at 13:30, while Brian Mullen will be featured on Blas in the evening from 19:30. Friday’s schedule includes Ms Hunniford’s conversation with Connor Phillips, during which she will recount memories from her time as one of the station’s founders in 1975. Mike Edgar is also scheduled to join Stephen McCauley on his program later that day from 19:00. Paul Clark will appear as John Toal’s guest on Saturday. The five-day event will conclude on Sunday with George Hamilton joining John Toal on Classical Connections from 19:00. Emma Dunseith, BBC Northern Ireland’s senior head of content production, stated, “she hoped listeners would enjoy the chance to reflect on 50 years of BBC Radio Ulster.” Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.