BBC Radio 2 has confirmed Trevor Nelson's replacement hosts just hours after the veteran presenter announced his temporary departure to focus on his health. The 62-year-old broadcaster has been absent from his afternoon show this week, with Richie Anderson covering for him. On Friday, June 26, Nelson shared a statement explaining he would take a break after needing follow-up tests following a routine check-up.
Clara Amfo and DJ Spoony to Step In
Next week, Clara Amfo will host Nelson's afternoon show from 2pm to 4pm each weekday for a one-week stint. Following that, DJ Spoony (real name Jonathan St John Joseph BEM) will take over the slot until further notice, with his first show scheduled for Monday, July 6. DJ Spoony usually hosts The Good Groove show on Radio 2 every Monday from 10pm to midnight. Melvin Odoom will cover the evening slot to allow Spoony to focus on the afternoon show.
Trevor Nelson's Health Statement
On Instagram, Nelson wrote: "I wanted to let my followers, radio listeners and all my Soul Nation party-people know that I'm going to be taking a little break from my work commitments. Some of you may already have noticed that I've not been on my daily Radio 2 slot this week. After a routine check-up, I was advised to have some follow-up tests. As a result, I will be taking some further time off. As I'm sure you can appreciate, with health issues, it's important to deal with facts and not speculate." He added: "So, I'm concentrating on getting better, being back to 100% me and getting back behind the mic and the decks."
Support from Colleagues
Richie Anderson addressed Nelson's absence on air, saying: "Sending all the love in the world to our Trevor. We've got your back, buddy." Vernon Kay also shared a tribute: "Everyone at BBC Radio 2, including the mid-morning show, is sending Trevor all the very best wishes. We absolutely love him to bits. He's a stalwart broadcaster within the UK - I played golf with him a couple of weeks ago, and he was in a buoyant mood. And I know that this challenge is something that Trevor is gonna face head-on." Lorna Clarke, Director of Music at the BBC, said: "Everyone at BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 1Xtra wishes Trevor a very speedy recovery and we all look forward to him returning to his shows whenever he is ready."
