DJ Huw Stephens bags daytime show on Radio 1

Stephens has built a solid reputation as a tastemaker and supporter of new talent

New music champion Huw Stephens has been promoted to a weekend daytime slot on BBC Radio 1.

The Cardiff-born DJ will take over the Saturday 1300-1600 slot in March from Jo Whiley, who is moving to Radio 2.

"Taking over from Jo Whiley is a real honour. She's a brilliant broadcaster and an inspiration," he said.

Stephens became the youngest ever Radio 1 presenter when he joined the station, aged just 17, in 1999. He currently presents two Wednesday night shows.

He started with Radio 1 co-hosting the Session in Wales with Bethan Elfyn.

Since then he has built a solid reputation within the music industry for being a prominent tastemaker and for being passionate about discovering and supporting new and unsigned talent.

Stephens currently presents two weekly shows on Radio 1 on Wednesdays (2100-2200 and midnight-0200).

Stephens was just 17 when he launched the Session in Wales with Bethan Elfyn

Under the move he will continue to host his later show, concentrating on new music and emerging talent.

Stephens has presented several documentaries and live events for Radio 1, as well as regularly deputising for both specialist and daytime DJs, reflecting his broad appeal.

He also presents Welsh language shows on BBC Radio Cymru and created the annual Swn Festival of new music in Cardiff.

In 2009 Huw was crowned The Independent newspaper's DJ of the Year and was a nominee in the 2010 Sony Radio Awards for Best Specialist Music Programme.

"I love presenting on Radio 1 and can't wait to present my own weekend show," said Stephens.

"Taking over from Jo Whiley is a real honour. She's a brilliant broadcaster and an inspiration and I hope to continue with Jo's enthusiasm and love for music on the show.

"My current shows give me the chance to dig deep and champion exciting emerging music, so I look forward to adding new sounds to weekend afternoons."

Ben Cooper, deputy controller of BBC Radio 1, said: "Huw is loved by artists and listeners alike.

"His ability to introduce you to new music, as well as make you smile, will make his new weekend show a must listen."