Shake Up At Radio 1 As Zane Lowe Departs

After 12 years helming the Monday to Thursday 7-9pm slot on Radio 1, Zane Lowe has announced his departure from the station.

The 41-year-old DJ is moving to the US to work at Apple - though what his role there will take is unknown. His last show will air on March 5. He will be replaced by Annie Mac from March 9. Mac, 36, who began her radio career as a broadcast assistant to Lowe on the show, said she was "excited and humbled" at the opportunity.

Zane said: "I want to thank everyone at Radio 1 for their support and friendship. "The station has allowed me to share incredible music with the country's best music fans. I've loved every minute of it."

Lowe's show, with its 'Next Hype' and 'Hottest Record In The World Right Now', together with headline-making interviews and breaking new artisrs, has become one of the most groundbreaking shows on Radio 1.

Annie Mac will continue to host her Friday evening dance show, but her Sunday night Musical Hot Water Bottle is now to be taken over by Phil Taggart as from March 1. He will also continue to host his own Thursday evening future music show.

Radio 1 controller Ben Cooper said: "Annie has proven she is a great ambassador for new music, and I’m delighted that she’s bringing her passion and knowledge to young audiences across the week. I’d like to thank Zane for 12 wonderful years at Radio 1, and wish him and his family all the very best."