First trans host for BBC radio

THE BBC has hired its first full- time transgender radio presenter.

Stephanie Hirst, born Simon, will take over the midmorning pro - gramme on Radio Leeds next month.

Four years ago, she left her job at Globe Radio and transitioned to a woman. She said she spent decades knowing she was in the wrong body after trying on girl’s roller skates aged eight. Her previous show Daily Dose, where she was known as Hirsty on air, was one of the most listened to radio shows in the north of England.

Miss Hirst, pictured, said: ‘I’m really looking forward to joining the team at BBC Radio Leeds. After four exciting years of change I can’t wait to get back to doing what I love the most, talking to the people of Yorkshire on the radio.’

ITV host Lorraine Kelly, who has worked with the presenter previously, yesterday tweeted her congratulations.