Sonia Deol, a flagship presenter at BBC Asian Network, will no longer front the digital radio station’s Breakfast Show. A statement issued by Asian Network today said that the decision had been “mutually agreed” between the two.

“Sonia and the station are exploring different opportunities with the Asian Network and we will let you know about these once they are agreed. She is also involved in other TV projects and has recently presented The Big Questions on BBC 1.”

“Jas Rao will continue to present the breakfast show for the next six months and a decision on a permanent replacement will be decided once the new Controller is in place.”

Sonia had been absent from the show since December when she went on a “three week holiday”, and her continued disappearance had prompted speculation within the industry that she may not come back. Some loyal listeners even started a group on Facebook to ask if she was coming back and expressing their concerns.