ZOE Ball bid an emotional final farewell to BBC Radio 2 listeners as she quit the show today.
The 54-year-old DJ paid tribute to her “hero” – fellow station star Jo Whiley – and her show’s team, saying they “held me up, quite literally, when I was at my lowest”.
She began her five-minute on air monologue by saying: “I am obviously full of feels today and I have so many people I want to thank.
A special shoutout to my friend Jo. Her show is my favourite on air. She has been such a friend to me in so many ways.
“Jo, keep championing great music. You are one beautiful lady, friend and mama. You are my hero.”
The mum-of-two gave a special shoutout to her kids, telling them: “Being your mum is the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”
Zoe added: “Now, through the glass, to my other kids. The prod squad, frog squad, fraud squad, as they’ve been called.
“They are an extraordinary group of young talent. My four producers over the years, Graham, Ricky, Jordan and Patrick.”
She went onto list all the people she’s worked with across
“They are super smart, adventurous, hilarious, brave, bold and have taught me so much.
“They’ve held me up, quite literally, when I’ve been at my lowest.
“I love you all and I’m going to miss you mighty amounts. Shine on you crazy diamonds.”
“Together, listeners, there’s been much laughter, some silliness, a few tears, lots of singing and there’s been dancing. May there always be dancing.
“Dear Scott will look after you in the New Year. He’s one of the good’uns.
“You’re going to have a lot of fun together.
“I’ll see you in the spring, popping up here on Radio Two for new adventures.
“As the song says, you give a little love and it all comes back to you.
“I have most definitely felt that love from you my listeners. I feel very lucky to have been here.
“I send buckets of love out to you and your dear ones this Christmas.
“It’s been very special. Take care of yourself, lovely peeps, my top cats.”
Zoe then played her final song on the radio, Keeping the Dream Alive by Münchener Freiheit.
