News

Mary Anne Hobbs to head student media

By Matt Burgess
Published: 24/07/2010

Radio One DJ Mary Ann Hobbs has resigned from the BBC and accepted an offer to head student media at the University of Sheffield.

Hobbs will be in charge of the development of Forge Media which entails Forge Press, Forge Radio, Forge TV and the ForgeToday website

Her resignation was announced today on her Myspace page where she said that working for Forge Media will provide her with new challenges.

Hobbs, who has worked for the BBC for 14 years, said: “The great freedoms the BBC have given in me as a broadcaster, have allowed me to help break so many confrontational artists as diverse as Slipknot and Skream, and of course, the whole genre of dubstep in recent times.

“My current Experimental show is in peak condition, it’s never been stronger. And although it’s a very emotional decision to leave the show that I love so much, it’s also an optimum moment to bow out, at the very top of my game. “

The DJ will continue to perform live, work in film and curate at the Sonar festival alongside her new role.

Students’ Union President Josh Forstenzer said: “Sheffield Union is delighted to welcome Mary Anne Hobbs to mentor our students in Forge Media, sharing her experience and knowledge to create the next generation of talented journalists and broadcasters.

“Mary Anne Hobbs is renowned for her pioneering Radio One show and music journalism. Forge Media is the UK’s first multi-platform media centre in a students’ union and Mary Anne will bring a professional perspective and a real passion for creativity and skills development.”

The last of Hobbs's weekly shows will be broadcast on Thursday September 9 from 2am to 4am.