Roy Plomley by the guest's choice of music. His contract was renewed for a further 15 shows. In the end he presented 1,791 editions of the programme stretching over 43 years. Its success was attributed to his skill as an interviewer and to his meticulous research. Plomley was succeeded as presenter by Michael Parkinson (1985–1988), then by Sue Lawley (1988–2006), and most recently by Kirsty Young. "Desert Island Discs" is the second longest-running radio programme in the world (after the Grand Ole Opry), and it is still running. Until late September 2009, unlike many other BBC radio programmes, "Desert Island Discs" was
Ian Collins (radio presenter) Ian Collins (radio presenter) Ian Collins (born 24 October) is a British radio and television presenter and journalist and author. Most recently, he hosted "Late Nights" on LBC - the UK's most listened to current affairs/topical debate programme. He left LBC in August 2018, claiming this was at his own instigation in order to focus on his health and family. He will be starting at BBC Radio Kent as the new Breakfast Show sidekick from 5th November. He previously hosted "The Late Show" (10pm Mon - Thurs) on talkSPORT. The show was non-sport and took a comedic/observational look at news