Zoe Ball is set to make her highly anticipated return to weekday radio, joining Greatest Hits Radio for a new afternoon show. The move marks her first regular weekday programme since departing the Radio 2 Breakfast Show in 2024.Her new show, titled Zoe Ball in the Afternoon, will air from 1pm to 4pm on weekdays, commencing in September. Listeners can anticipate a vibrant mix of big-name guests, engaging listener chats, and special features.Expressing her enthusiasm for the new venture, Ball stated: "There’s something truly special about radio – the relationship you build with listeners, the energy, the music and the moments of joy and laughter you share together. I’ve missed it and this felt like the right time to begin a new chapter with Greatest Hits Radio. As a station, Greatest Hits Radio has built something really brilliant – epic music, big personalities and a genuine connection with listeners. I’m excited to be joining the team and getting started."Ball will continue to co-host the popular Dig It podcast alongside Jo Whiley. Her move to Greatest Hits Radio follows a similar path taken by Ken Bruce, who joined the station in 2023 after a distinguished 46-year career at the BBC. Zoe Ball left Radio 2 in 2024 (Getty Images)Bruce welcomed Ball on air this morning, saying: "From today I will no longer be the new boy here as he have a brand new recruit. And so for the next stage of our journey together, I am absolutely delighted and thrilled to say hello, good morning, and welcome to Greatest Hits Radio to you, Zoe Ball!"Gary Stein, director of audio for Bauer Media Audio UK, lauded Ball as one of the UK’s most "talented and best-loved broadcasters," highlighting her "extraordinary ability to connect with audiences" and "a real passion for great music."The announcement also included news of other significant changes to the station’s line-up. Broadcaster Kate Thornton is set to launch a new prime-time Saturday show, in addition to her existing UK Pop 40 programme every Sunday, also starting in September. Claire Sturgess will take over the weekend Breakfast show on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 6am to 9am. Thornton welcomed her new colleague, remarking: "Zoe’s an incredible signing, an incredible broadcaster and a good friend. I’ll be first in line to welcome her to the Greatest Hits family and I’m really looking forward to working alongside her."Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 dayNew subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled.Try for freeADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 dayNew subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled.Try for freeADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.This career development comes weeks after Ball openly discussed dealing with "grief and rejection" following her unsuccessful bid for a Strictly Come Dancing hosting role. Ball holds a notable place in radio history as the first woman to present the BBC Radio 1 Breakfast Show solo in 1998. She also previously hosted a Saturday afternoon slot on BBC Radio 2.Zoe Ball In The Afternoon is scheduled to begin on Monday, September 7.