Esteemed broadcaster Billy Sloan has bid farewell to his audience with an emotional sign-off. He shared on X, “Tonight marks my final show for BBC Radio Scotland after a rewarding 11 years. What memorable moments stand out for you? Perhaps an unforgettable interview with icons like Paul McCartney, U2, Elvis Costello, or The Who. Join me tonight on @BBCRadioScot at 10.” Fans flooded in with their goodbyes, with one remarking, “Billy, we’re tuning in a bit late tonight, but the first hour has been incredible. We’ll miss you dearly. Thanks for the entertainment over the past 11 years.”

Another fan expressed, “Your shows have always been fantastic, and Saturdays won’t be the same without you. My most cherished memory was from five years ago, after three years of listening, when you read our tweet on air.” Sloan’s departure follows a critical response to BBC’s decision to cancel his Saturday night slot, a move affecting fellow presenters Roddy Hart, Iain Anderson, and Natasha Raskin Sharp, with their shows ending before 2025.

In a social media announcement, Billy confirmed his last broadcast would be next month. He stated, “I will host my final show for BBC Radio Scotland next month. As reported, a new leader is steering the station in a different direction, and I’m not part of those plans.”

He elaborated, “On Saturday, December 27, I’ll reluctantly conclude an immensely enjoyable 11-year chapter of hosting the program.”

Billy further noted, “I DON’T play the usual hits—the songs you hear repeatedly. Instead, I enjoy offering listeners alternative tracks they might not typically encounter on the airwaves.”

He concluded: “I can honestly say – hand on heart – that I’ve never played a single record I didn’t think was great.

“But it appears that in the new format that is being introduced – reported in the press to be more of an “easy listening/broad mainstream appeal” – that is no longer what is required.

“Musically, I plan to go out with a bang with some special shows. Over the next few weeks, I’ll look back at the best of the interviews during that 11-year period, revisiting my conversations with stars such as Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger, U2, Alice Cooper and Pete Townshend of The Who … to name but a few.

“I’ll also reveal my favourite singles, albums and gigs of 2025 with songs from Oasis, Simple Minds, Public Image Limited, Richard Ashcroft and Fontaines DC.

“Before bowing out with some of my all-time favourite compositions from artistes including David Bowie, The Sensational Alex Harvey Band, Orange Juice, Scott Walker and The Clash … with a few musical curve balls thrown in for good measure.

“I send my heartfelt thanks to all the musicians I’ve had the pleasure to work with, and to my legions of loyal listeners who tune in every week – from all around the globe – responding enthusiastically to our topic.

“Your continued support is greatly appreciated.”