Zoe Ball makes shock career announcement as she tearfully signs off from Radio 2

Zoe Ball left her BBC Radio 2 morning show on Friday after six years, but made a shock career announcement in her emotional goodbye speech

It was an end of an era this morning when Zoe Ball bid a final farewell to her BBC Radio 2 breakfast show.

The presenter was emotional throughout her last ever edition of the morning show after six years. And, after a powerful end speech, she decided to play Kim Wilde's Keeping The Dream Alive in which to bow out.

However, she did make a shock announcement to her fans, promising to be back on the Radio 2 airwaves next year. As she signed off, Zoe said: "Thank you for tuning in, whether as a lone listener, as family, as a work Gang on your morning jogs, dog walks, truck drives, train commutes, or hiding in bed, it's been a real privilege to keep you company through your morning manoeuvres. You're just there and I'm just here having a chat with a mate. It's such a special, intimate relationship.

"It's never lost on me that we've been through life's little highs and little lows together. I really do hope that we've managed to bring some sunshine and light when you've most needed it. A daft distraction from the hardest stuff. I've been bowled over by your messages, texts, emails, cards and letters across the years. Thank you for sharing with me your stories of love and loss, your baby news, your kids leaving home. Together, listeners, there's been much laughter, some silliness, a few tears, lots of singing, and there has been dancing. May there always be dancing."

She then said: "Dear Scott will look after you in the new year. He's one of the good ones. You can have a lot of fun together," before revealing: "I'll see you in the spring, popping up here on Radio 2 for new adventures."

Zoe ended by saying: "As the song says, You give a little love and it all comes back to you. Well, I've most definitely felt that love from your listeners. I feel very lucky to have been here. I sent buckets of love out to you and your dear ones this Christmas. It's been very special. Take care of yourselves, lovely peeps, my top cats."

For the final show, Zoe played some of her best moments since taking on the role in 2019. There were also a number of special tribute messages from fans and famous faces, leaving Zoe in tears. Among those sharing sweet messages were Kylie Minogue, who thanked Zoe for her friendship.

The presenter is now handing over her morning show to fellow presenter Scott Mills. Zoe had revealed on air last month that she was leaving the show, much to the disappointment of her fans.

* Follow Mirror Celebs on Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.