Radio 2 has announced that Paul O’Grady has decided to leave his Sunday afternoon show.

Paul’s last programme will be on Sunday 14 August as he comes to the end of his current 13 week run of shows.

Paul says: “I’ve loved doing my Sunday afternoon show for the last 14 years and I’m going to miss my listeners as well as the fun I’ve had with my producer Malcolm Prince, but I feel that now is the right time to go.”

Helen Thomas, Head of Radio 2 says: “I’d like to thank Paul for so many years of his brilliant Sunday afternoon show. I’m sorry to see him go, but I wish Paul the very best of luck for the future and hope to work with him again as the door is always open to him here at Radio 2.”

Paul launched his weekly show in the Sunday timeslot in 2009, and for many years Paul ‘The Grinch’ O’Grady has hosted his Christmas Day special on the network featuring messages and dedications from listeners all over the world, as well as an eclectic seasonal playlist.

His final show will feature all the regular features – a Lost TV Theme, the Thank You Letter of the Week and an unexpected playlist. Plus, producer Malcolm picks another unsuitable song for a wedding anniversary, and there's a dubious Cocktail recipe...

From Sunday 21st August, Rob Beckett returns to Sunday afternoons for his next 13 week run of shows.

Future plans for the slot will be announced at a later date.