A Wiltshire radio presenter has been chosen to host a prime time programme on BBC Radio 1 on New Year’s Day.

James Threlfall, who is a professional skateboarder, is a regular BBC Radio Wiltshire presenter, as well as a DJ and a podcaster.

He has been selected from more than 1,000 hopefuls to present a Dance Anthems programme on BBC Radio 1 from 4pm-7pm over the festive period.

Mr Threlfall, 28, who comes from Melksham but now lives in Devizes, said: “I'm absolutely buzzing. Going on BBC Radio 1 has been a bit of a dream for me.

"This is a pretty massive moment for me and one that I've been working towards for a long time! Especially having been selected from over 1,000 presenters to do it.”

Mr Threlfall's says he doesn't intend to blow his opportunity to hit the ‘big time’ and that he's looking forward to it immensely.

"He added: "I can’t wait to bring all the energy and amazing tunes to New Year’s Day!"

The opportunity is part of BBC Radio 1’s decision to showcase the best in new and emerging talent in a Christmas Takeover.

Mr Threlfall will be one of 30 presenters who will be given a once in a lifetime opportunity to broadcast on the UK’s biggest youth radio station.

Since 2019 Mr Threlfall has presented programmes on BBC local radio in the west of England, in 2020 he became the presenter of BBC Music Introducing in the West, and in 2021, he was a finalist for Best Newcomer at the BBC’s Frank Gillard Awards. He's also hosted podcasts, documentaries, social content and more for BBC Sport, BBC Three and BBC Sounds.

Mr Threlfall is very passionate about young people and mental health, and his work in these areas saw him receive an MBE from the Queen aged 25.

Aled Haydn Jones, Head of Radio 1, said: “Since its launch in 2019, Radio 1’s Christmas Takeover has grown into a powerful catalyst for boosting the careers of new and emerging presenters and DJs right across the industry.

“We’re incredibly proud of the achievements of those who have taken part in the takeover over the past couple of years, and we’re looking forward to showcasing the new crop of talent over the festive period this year.”

BBC Radio 1 has long been dedicated to supporting the best emerging talent from across the UK, with initiatives like Radio 1’s Residency and Radio 1’s Brit List dedicated to bringing emerging presenters, DJs and artists into the spotlight.

Radio 1’s Christmas Takeover, launched in 2019, gave 35 new DJs and presenters a chance to host a show on the station over the festive period, followed by a successful second round in 2020.

The initiative provides a valuable springboard for emerging presenters working to carve out careers in national radio, with many of the guest presenters going on to achieve major successes across the industry.