Jonathan Cowap to leave BBC Radio York after 34 years on-air
Jonathan Cowap has announced he’s not prepared to re-apply for the job he’s been doing for 34 years and decided to leave the BBC instead.
The BBC Radio York daytime presenter is just one of many local radio presenters being given the ultimatum as the corporation makes major changes across the network.
Jonathan informed listeners on his show yesterday (Thursday) that his last programme will be on May 11th 2023.
In an emotional announcement (1’13” in), he said he didn’t appreciate being told the only way to keep his job, after presenting a daily show for 34 years, is to make a demo tape and go through an interview, so has decided to take voluntary redundancy.
A BBC spokesperson told the BBC: “Jonathan has been at the centre of life in York and North Yorkshire for three decades. He has led the local conversation and been a trusted guide and constant for audiences in the area.
“We respect his decision to leave and thank him for his service.”
RadioToday has contacted the BBC for comment regarding the growing number of departures being announced by staff, and details of the new station schedules which have been revealed to staff at some stations in the last few weeks.
New audio – @joncowap announces he is to leave @BBCYork after 34 years (May 4th 2023).#AircheckDownloads pic.twitter.com/HvPed9phf1
— Aircheck Downloads (@airchecks) May 5, 2023