New shows for Adil Ray Tina Hobley and Darren Parks at Smooth Radio
Photo credit: Matt Crossick/Smooth
Adil Ray is joining Smooth Radio to host a weekend show plus, Tina Hobley will present an extra show and there’s a new host for The Smooth Sanctuary.
The schedule changes come after the station recently achieved its highest ever audience figures with a record-breaking 7.8 million people tuning in each week – an increase of 1.7 million listeners in the past year.
Adil Ray is joining to host the Saturday mid-morning programme, 10am to 1pm, launching on Saturday 1st March. This follows his stint as a guest presenter on Smooth over Christmas and New Year.
Adil said: “Joining the Smooth family really feels like I am coming home. It’s no surprise that millions up and down the country are coming together to make Smooth their home too.
“I cannot wait to spend Saturday mornings with you, the best time of the week! Whether you’re at work, doing housework, homework or on the road, please join me for quite simply the best music in the world!”
Darren Parks, host of Smooth Breakfast in the North West of England, moves to become the new host of The Smooth Sanctuary, Monday to Friday from 7pm to 10pm.
Darren takes over from Gary Vincent who remains at Smooth to host The Smooth Sanctuary on Sundays (7pm to 10pm).
Paul Phear continues hosting The Smooth Sanctuary on Saturdays (7pm to 10pm), in addition to his weekday afternoon programme.
Darren said: “The Smooth Sanctuary is the ultimate de-stress after a busy day. I am looking forward to presenting such an iconic show and helping listeners ease into their evenings with the perfect soundtrack of songs.”
Tina Hobley will host a second weekend show, on Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm, in addition to her Sunday show (also 1pm to 4pm).
Tina said: “Having been a presenter on the station for more than 10 years, Smooth is definitely my radio home, as I know it is for millions of our listeners.
“I am so excited to be hosting a second weekend show, playing the best music on your Saturday and Sunday afternoons, so whatever you’re doing, I look forward to your company!”
Sally Ardis, Senior Managing Editor of Heart, Smooth, Classic FM, and Gold Radio, said: “As we celebrate another record-breaking set of audience figures, with more than 7.8 million people now tuning in to Smooth each week, we’re excited to offer our listeners new shows powered by the best music.
“It’s fantastic to welcome Adil Ray to our Smooth family, to announce a second weekend show for Tina Hobley, and the brilliant Darren Parks as the new host of The Smooth Sanctuary.”