Laverne joins from Xfm's drivetime show where she took over from Zoe Ball in December 2003. The former Kenickie frontwoman had previously hosted the mid-morning Saturday show for two years.
There had been much media speculation about who would succeed the Sony Award-winning O'Connell after he was poached by bigger rival Virgin.
Laverne had been one of two hot favourites to take over the morning slot, with the other being Shaun Keaveny who presents the mid-morning show. Laverne will be succeeded on the drivetime show by Xfm's newest recruit, Sony Gold award-winner Lucio.
Geordie Laverne is credited by the GCap-owned Xfm of boosting drivetime listenship to a record high.
"I'm so happy and excited to be given such an amazing show on the best radio station currently broadcasting. We're so lucky to have the best music and the best listeners. I know Christian has had a fantastic time with both over the last few years and I intend to follow in his footsteps, albeit in stilettos," Laverne said.
Xfm's programme controller Andy Ashton said that Laverne was the station's number one choice to take over from O'Connell, making her the only current female breakfast show host of a leading station.
"In a market full of lads, it's going to be fantastic for Xfm to have a completely unique position at breakfast, hosted by a classy lady who has all the credentials to take the Xfm breakfast show to a new level. Lauren has already proved a complete hit with the Xfm audience who love her smart and sassy style. She is a true one-off," Ashton said.
If you have an opinion on this or any other issue raised on Brand Republic, join the debate in the
.jpg)
.jpg)