SUE Lawley is to quit as presenter of BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs after more than 18 years.
Lawley, 59, said today she wanted to pursue "other aspects of broadcasting and maybe a bit of business too".
She has occupied the presenter's chair since 1987 and is only the third presenter in the show's 64-year history.
Her last programme will be on August 27.
Lawley said: "It is one of the best jobs in broadcasting. But it has dominated my professional life and I feel the time has come to concentrate on other aspects of broadcasting and maybe a bit of business too.
"I've had more than 18 very happy years and have talked to some extraordinary people as they revealed themselves through their choice of music."
Over the years Lawley has interviewed some of the biggest names in politics, the arts, literature and sport.
The Sunday show is currently enjoying its highest ratings since 1999.
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