Unknown lands Radio 1 show

Radio 1 today gave a virtual unknown her own show in an attempt to revitalise its evening schedule.

Annie MacManus, 25, has been at the station for two years, as a broadcast assistant on Zane Lowe's evening show.

Bosses were so impressed with her on-air performance they have handed her a show of her own to champion the best new dance music.

Dubliner MacManus, who will be heard on Thursdays from 9-11pm, said today: "I couldn't have asked for a better show that defines me and what I stand for. I am over the moon and can't wait to get started."

Older faces from the station have lost out. Long-standing DJ Seb Fontaine has been axed from his Saturday night slot, and is expected to return to his club roots. Dave Pearce loses his Monday-to-Thursday 6pm show and has been relegated to a Sunday night slot.

Radio 1 has turned to new faces in what was described as "significant changes to its line-up of specialist shows". A spokesman said: "Annie will be playing a snapshot of the most exciting new dance music.

"She is a reflection of our listeners who go out clubbing and discover new music. The difference is, she has her own show."

Other big winners include Zane Lowe, who came from Xfm in 2002. His dynamic style has been a hit on the 8-10pm slot three nights a week, where he championed music by acts ranging from The Darkness to 50 Cent. Now he will be a key player in the 7-9pm slot on Monday to Thursday.

Other big winners from the overhaul, which starts in July, include Edith Bowman and Colin Murray, whose weekday show has been extended. Scott Mills will present Sara Cox's show while she is on maternity leave.

Veteran dance DJ Pete Tong has held on to his Friday night show, while John Peel's programme remains unchanged. He has been at Radio1 since it started in 1967.

There will also be evening shows specialising in different genres including rock, dance and Asian music by DJs Bobby and Nihal.