Kirsty Young is Desert Islands Discs host

Published Tuesday 27 June 2006 at 16:35 by Liz Thomas

Kirsty Young is to become the new presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs taking over from current incumbent Sue Lawley.

She will take up her new role at the beginning of the next series starting this autumn, becoming the fourth presenter in the show’s more than 64-year history.

Young, who made her name as a newsreader on Channel 5, said: “I’ve loved Desert Island Discs for as long as I’ve been listening to radio. Its enduring success is testament both to the brilliant format and consistently fascinating guests. There isn’t a show on radio I’d rather present. I’m completely thrilled to be doing it and can’t wait to get started.”

The show was devised by original presenter Roy Plomley, after his death Michael Parkinson took the helm. In 1988 Lawley took over and steps down after 18 years this August. Previous castaways have included the last five UK Prime Ministers and stars such as Noel Coward, George Clooney, Doris Lessing, Stephen Hawking and Princess Margaret.

Mark Damazer, controller, BBC Radio 4 said: “I’m delighted Kirsty Young will be taking over Desert Island Discs. I have admired her work on radio and television for a number of years. She combines warmth and curiosity - the perfect combination to make a success of the programme.”