Liza Tarbuck quits Radio 2 show in ‘devastating’ move

The broadcaster, who has hosted the much-loved 6pm to 8pm slot since 2012, called her time on air “the stuff of dreams” in a message to fans.

She wrote on Instagram: “We made 2 hrs of radio feel like a private members club, that’s the stuff of dreams.

“Thousands of people enjoyed each other’s company like great friends… Thank you for letting me in, it’s been a privilege.”

Helen Thomas, head of Radio 2, praised Tarbuck’s contribution to the station.

Ms Thomas said: “Every Saturday evening, Liza created a truly magical, fantastical world.

“She was beloved by everyone at the station and all her listeners, and the door at Radio 2 will always be open for her.

“Liza will be hugely missed and we wish her the very best of luck for the future.”

Shaun Keaveny, who will take over the slot until the end of March, also paid tribute.

Mr Keaveny wrote: “Liza, you stand among the greats.

“You’re my hero shoulder to shoulder with Terry, Steve, all that lot.

“You did it best.”

Rylan Clark, who hosts the Saturday afternoon show on Radio 2, shared a heartfelt message.

He wrote: “I’m gonna miss you so much. Genuinely,”

“I’m so lucky to have worked with you for so long.

“Thank you for making me cackle on and off air.

“I love you.”

Listeners took to social media to express their heartbreak at the news, with one saying: “Whaaaaaat! Nooooooo! Liza was our Saturday evening and we’ve been missing her so much.”

Another added: “Liza Tarbuck is unique on the radio. Am truly devastated but wish her all the best.”

While a third said: “Devastating. It was the best two hours of radio ever. A black cloud is over me.”

BBC Licence Fee to increase next month

The cost of a TV licence is set to rise again next month.

From April, the annual fee will increase by £5.50 to £180, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) confirmed earlier this year.

This rise, which comes in line with inflation, is part of the 2022 Licence Fee Settlement and will also apply to future increases, with the fee set to rise again in line with CPI inflation in April 2027.

A DCMS statement said: “The Government recognises the financial pressures on households and is committed to ensuring the BBC’s funding model is sustainable, fair and affordable.

“The Government has committed to the licence fee for the remainder of this charter period.

“To support the public with the cost of the TV licence, we will also continue to support the simple payment plan to spread payments through smaller instalments.

“Free licences remain available for over-75s on pension credit, with reduced fees for care home residents and blind individuals.”

The TV licence, the main funding source for the BBC, is legally required to watch or record live television in the UK and to use BBC iPlayer.

The cost of a black and white TV licence will also rise from £58.50 to £60.50 for 2026/27.