BBC Radio Five Live's Anita Anand has been made co-presenter on its popular Drivetime show, making her one of the most prominent Asian voices on national radio.

Anita Anand took over Five Live's late night show two years ago.

In a shake-up that is scheduled to come into play from next week, she will join veteran presenter Petter Allen in co-hosting the show from 4pm to 7pm every weekday.

Anita told AIM magazine: "I'm delighted to be taking over on what i have always regarded as one of the finest news programmes on the BBC. Also working with someone of the calibre of Peter Allen is bound to be a joy."

Her night-time show from 11pm to 1am will be taken over by Richard Bacon.

Anita will take over from Jane Garvey, who has been presenting Drivetime on Five Live for 13 years.

Five Live controller Bob Shennan, who also looks after Asian Network, said Garvey's departure was the "end of an era".

"I am really sad to lose Jane. She is a fantastic broadcaster and has played a major part in the station since its launch. I hope she will be back on it at some stage in the future," Mr Shennan added.

Anand and Bacon, whose show will feature news, entertainment and sport, will begin their new roles on October 8.