DevonAir Radio hires broadcaster Gary Champion for weekends

Broadcaster Gary Champion is joining the DevonAir Radio lineup in November.

The former BBC presenter will be hosting a new Saturday afternoon show from 2pm till 4pm.

Gary’s career began in journalism, working for a local newspaper before moving to London to join the motorsport publication Motoring News.

He later freelanced as a sub-editor for the Sunday Mirror and gained on-air experience at Portsmouth’s Radio Victory. Reflecting on those days, Gary fondly recalls working alongside mentors like Glen Richards (better known to Devon listeners as CJ Monroe) and Dave Christian, which he describes as “invaluable.”

Gary’s broadcasting career expanded into television, where he worked as a sports reporter and presenter for TV-am, covering major events such as the Lockerbie disaster and the Gulf War.

Despite his varied TV career, radio has always been his passion. “Radio is a blank canvas where you can really engage with your audience and paint pictures in their minds,” he says.

In recent years, Gary has led teams responsible for the BBC’s coverage of five General Elections, as well as major royal events including births, weddings, funerals, and even a coronation. Now living in Devon near Tavistock, Gary appreciates the local lifestyle and doesn’t miss the hustle of London. “Here, people say good morning. On the London Tube, if you do that, people think you’re a bit odd!” he jokes.

The station adds: “Gary brings a wealth of experience in radio and event hosting at major venues across the UK, and we’re excited to welcome him to DevonAir. We can’t wait for the fantastic content he’ll share with our listeners.”