Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood to leave BBC

Radio 1/1Xtra DJ Tim Westwood has confirmed his decision to leave the BBC.

A Radio 1 veteran since the station’s first foray into a dedicate rap show in the mid-90s, Westwood will be remembered as the man who brought rap and hip-hop into the more mainstream, with often first interviews with some of the biggest artists of the urban world.

Of the decision to leave the corporation, Radio 1/1Xtra controller Ben Cooper said “I’d like to thank Tim for the last 20 years on Radio 1 – his passion for hip-hop is legendary – I wish him all the very best.”

Westwood’s departure marks a shake-up with the current 1Xtra lineup, with MistaJam taking the lead on the 7pm evening show, followed by Charlie Sloth (9pm) and DJ Target at 11pm.