Livingstone signs as radio talk show host

Ken Livingstone is to host his own live radio chat show.

The former mayor has signed up for an undisclosed fee to talk radio station LBC to present his own afternoon phone-in.

He will have a practise run at the end of June when he stands in for regular afternoon presenter Jeni Barnett.

Mr Livingstone, 62, will then go on to present his own regular show, although he is still in talks with bosses about the format.

Left-winger Mr Livingstone said today: "I'm delighted to be joining LBC. I'll be the perfect afternoon antidote to Nick Ferrari. You can detox with me."

LBC said it was thrilled to welcome Livingstone after his eightyear reign as London mayor ended earlier this month following his defeat by Boris Johnson.

Jonathan Richards, the station's programme director, said: "Ken brings unique insight to LBC 97.3. After eight years as mayor of London, no-one knows this city and its people better.

"He has seen London through the best and worst of times.

"Love him or hate him, Ken Livingstone is never boring."

A spokesman added: "Ken was very eager. Having been mayor for eight years, he wanted to continue being a voice for the city.

"He said that many listeners might not like him to begin with, but he was looking forward to eventually persuading them round."