SARA COX BEGINS BBC RADIO 2 BREAKFAST SHOW ROLE

Sara Cox launched her first broadcast as host of BBC Radio 2's breakfast programme on Monday morning. The Bolton-born DJ opened her inaugural show with Lizzo's "About Damn Time" and engaged directly with listeners, encouraging them to interact with her. Cox asked her audience to "show me some love" during her opening address and read out early messages from listeners.

Cox's appointment follows the departure of Scott Mills in March, whose contract with the BBC was terminated following allegations about his personal conduct. Gary Davies had covered the breakfast slot in the interim period. Cox marked her first show with celebratory musical selections, including "Three Lions" by David Baddiel, Frank Skinner and The Lightning Seeds, coinciding with England's recent 3-2 victory against Mexico at the World Cup.

The breakfast programme represents the highest-profile slot on BBC Radio 2. Cox extended thanks to Davies for his work during the transition period and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to take on the role.