Vernon Kay assures his audience that he will be a voice for the listeners on his new BBC Radio 2 mid-morning show. Following the playing of U2’s “Beautiful Day,” he emphasized that the show would not center solely around London despite broadcasting from the city.

“This show’s for you, it’s not just about the capital, it’s about what’s going on in your world,” he said.

At the age of 49, Vernon Kay assumes the role previously held by veteran broadcaster Ken Bruce, who hosted the weekday slot for an impressive 31 years.

Earlier this year in January, the 72-year-old Bruce announced his departure from the BBC, subsequently launching his new mid-morning show on Bauer’s Greatest Hits Radio in April.

Having previously served as a host on BBC Radio 1, Vernon Kay brings his experience to the table, having had his own show on the station from 2004 to 2012.

During his introduction to the station, Kay received a warm welcome from fellow presenters Zoe Ball, Scott Mills, and Jo Whiley, all of whom have also transitioned from Radio 1 to Radio 2.

“Welcome Vern, I cannot wait for our handovers – smash it baby,” Zoe said in an audio message on his first show.

“I’m so glad you’re starting on weekdays, I get to see you every day, you deserve it so much – welcome to the family,” added Scott Mills.

“You’re just a joy to hear, welcome,” Jo Whiley also said.

Vernon Kay, known for hosting several television programs such as ITV’s “All Star Family Fortunes,” “Just The Two of Us,” and “Beat the Star,” is now set to launch his new show.

The upcoming program will include a daily music quiz titled “Ten To The Top” and captivating performances from the Radio 2 Piano Room.

Speaking ahead of his first show on Monday morning, he told BBC Breakfast: “I’m very, very excited. The BBC Radio 2 audience are very faithful and nothing has changed apart from the voice behind the microphone.”

Asked what he will bring to the show, Kay said: “Nothing that they haven’t heard before really, just tales of the past and everything that has gone on from when I was a caretaker in Bolton.

“All those stories that connect me with the audience, it’s not all champagne, bubbles, tuxedo and dinner parties once you get into showbiz.”