BBC Asian Network Announces New Shows And Talent

BBC Asian Network has announced brand new shows and talent that will join the station starting on 14 May.

Asian Network presenter Yasser has been given the drive time slot weekdays from 4pm-7pm, and the Official Asian Music Chart will move to his Friday show.

Yasser said: "It's an honour to be hosting the infamous drive time slot on the BBC Asian Network. I've been an avid listener for years and it's a dream come true to be hosting such a big show. It's an exciting time for the network and I can't wait to get stuck in."

Asian Network also announced a new programme within the schedule that will explore a broad range of key issues and topics for young British-Asian audiences, presented by award winning investigative journalist and film maker Mobeen Azhar. Having produced and presented documentaries for BBC Two and BBC Three, he will delve into the issues that really matter to young people today in a no holds barred new talk show on the station, broadcast Monday-Thursdays (10pm-12midnight).

The station has also signed International DJ and music producer Nucleya to host a new show on Sunday evenings (7-9pm). Bobby Friction will continue to champion new music across the week from 7-10pm.

In other schedule changes, BBC Asian Network announced a brand new show, Asian Network Residency (Saturdays, 10pm-1am), championing the next generation of new DJ talent. Mawaan and Emily's show moves to a daytime slot on Saturday afternoons (1-4pm), and Derby born AJD will host a new show on Saturdays (4-7pm) with Panjabi Hit Squad presenting a new additional Friday night show.

BBC Asian Network joins the Radio 1Xtra simulcast every day from 1-6am, replacing the current Radio 5 Live simulcast.

Ben Cooper, Controller, Radio 1, 1Xtra and Asian Network, says: "I can't wait to hear this brand new schedule full of inspiring, authentic and passionate presenters who will celebrate British Asian culture."