Strictly Come Dancing star Clara Amfo has announced she is stepping down from hosting BBC Radio 1’s Future Sounds.

The 39-year-old has fronted the show since 2021 but her departure next year comes as she will be working on new projects with the network instead.

Future Sounds has previously been hosted by some of the biggest presenters in music such as Zane Lowe, Annie Mac and Steve Lamacq.

Amfo said: “I’m so proud of the work I’ve been able to do on every show, whether it’s been from the 8th floor, a city in the UK or a pop star’s house across the pond.

“I’m grateful to have had the ears of the listeners who have consistently shown up for me.

“I’m enamoured by everyone I’ve had the privilege of working alongside for each and every broadcast.

“I’m energised and excited for my next chapter as part of the network and beyond.”

Before moving onto Future Sounds, Amfo previously hosted Radio 1’s Live Lounge, The Official Chart on Radio 1, and her 1Xtra programme.

Following the success of her interviews with artists including Doja Cat, Pink Pantheress, Raye, Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, she will now focus on artist specials for the network over the coming year and will launch a new BBC Sounds music show in 2024.

Who will replace Clara Amfo on BBC Radio 1’s Future Sounds in 2024?

Jack Saunders, who currently presents the station’s Future Artists and The Official Chart shows, will be taking over from April 15.

On taking over the show, which will air from 6pm on Monday to Thursday, Saunders said: “All I’ve ever wanted to do is host this show on Radio 1 and all my dreams have become a reality.

“I can’t wait to champion new music and be the voice for a new generation of artists.”

During his time with Radio 1 so far he has helped lead coverage of a number of major UK festivals such as Glastonbury, Download Festival, Reading & Leeds and BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

See all changes to BBC Radio 1 Schedule for 2024

Elsewhere, following Saunders’ move away from Future Artists, Welsh radio DJ Sian Eleri will host a new show focused on launching artists and bands from across all genres, beginning in April 2024, Monday to Wednesday from 8pm to 10pm.

Alyx Holcombe will take over the hosting duties on Radio 1’s Indie Show, which will air from 9pm to 11pm every Sunday starting from January 7.

Meanwhile, Scottish presenter Arielle Free will host a new dance show on Thursday nights starting in April 2024.

Head of BBC Radio 1 Aled Haydn-Jones said: “Jack was born to host this show – I am so excited to hear what he delivers for Radio 1’s music-loving audience.

He added: “I’d like to thank Clara for everything she has done for Future Sounds and I’m delighted that she will be staying with Radio 1 and BBC Music to continue to bring some amazing artist highlights over the next year and beyond.”