Radio legend Alan Robson is set to stand down from radio after more than 40 years of presenting Night Owls in the North East.
Alan, from Benwell, confirmed on Sunday that Night Owls will end this month. The once-daily late-night phone-in show moved to weekly slot on Greatest Hits Radio in 2019, after 40 years on Metro Radio, where it achieved cult-like status and a loyal audience.
Night Owls will end on Sunday April 24. But award-winning broadcaster Alan is moving into podcasting and content for Facebook, YouTube and his own website.
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Alan, who was awarded an MBE in 2014, said: "Following 40 great news at Metro Radio, it was fantastic to have the opportunity to bring Night Owls to Greatest Hits Radio in the North East. While the show will be coming to an end on the station, I'm excited that we will be releasing a podcast as well as my personal website Robsonsworld.com
"I've also started live history and ghost specials every week on Facebook and YouTube, so watch this space for more. I would just like to thank everyone who made me part of their lives, it's been a hell of a ride."
Listeners wished Alan luck upon hearing the news.
"Very sad news," replied Radio Gateshead presenter and producer James Cowen on Twitter.
"Here’s hoping it will be able to live on in a new home. I know how much the show has helped thousands across the North East and afar. Good luck in your new ventures, Alan and team."
"Started listening early 90s on a Walkman...amount of batteries I went through as a youth," replied another listener.
"Thank you Alan and your team for the effort over the years."
Alan first joined Metro Radio in 1975 on a part-time basis. In 1979 he launched Night Owls Crazy night, which morphed into Night Owls. He also has an interest in history and paranormal activity and has curated spooky walks about the dark side of Newcastle.
Gary Stein Group Programme Director at Bauer Media, Metro and Greatest Hits' owners: "Alan's contribution to our business and the radio industry is unprecedented and we are deeply appreciative of his commitment over the decades. We'd like to wish him the very best of luck with the next chapter for Night Owls."
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