Popular Asian broadcaster, Sonia Deol is returning full-time on the BBC Asian Network, replacing Nikki Bedi who is leaving after six years on-air.

Sonia, who currently presents a Friday afternoon show on the station,
will move to the new weekday slot from Monday 8th February.

Incidently, it was only last night, Sonia was seen on a controversial BBC One documentary about the 1984 attacks on The Golden Temple in Amritsar.

Sonia says, "The Asian Network audience and I have grown up together, so I'm really excited about my new show. It's going to be fun, real, sometimes cheeky, and 'must listen to' radio, even though starting on my birthday means I've had to cancel Akshay Kumar taking me out for the day, but I'd much rather be in the Asian Network studio broadcasting to the nation. Ok, that last bit isn't strictly true!"

Before her Friday stints on the Asian Network, Sonia fronted the 'Breakfast' show before being temporary taken over by Jas Rao and now Adil Ray. Sonia has previously presented the mid-morning show and has proved successful.

In other changes on the Asian Network, Tommy Sandhu has been named the new 'Drivetime' presenter replacing Jas Rao, who will move on to "other projects" at the station.

Tommy says, "Wow - the drive show at Asian Network - I'm so pleased!As the show is all about getting people home from work or school safely...then the listeners will be glad to know the journey will be smooth and I have got room for everybody! All are welcome to hop on board the new 'drive show tractor' for a desi ride like no other!"

Vijay Sharma, Head of BBC Asian Network, says, "Bringing Sonia and Tommy into the heart of our daytime schedule gives us one of the most talented and engaging presenter line-ups not just on Asian Radio but on all Radio across the UK."

Andy Parfitt, Controller, BBC Asian Network, adds, "These changes are part of our long term strategy for the Asian Network to re-focus thestation on a broader family audience."

Nihal will present Sonia's old Friday slot. An announcement on 'Weekend Breakfast' which was formely presented by Tommy Sandhu will be made soon.

The BBC Asian Network has come attack in the media recently after tumbling ratings. Will these changes better the Network's future? Only time will tell.

Related links:
Sonia Deol to present BBC One's 'Sikh Story'
BBC Asian Network comes under fire again
RAJAR Results: Huge fall for BBC Asian Net.
BBC denies Asian Network radio closure