RADIO presenter Rachel Sloane has announced her retirement from the airwaves - while Radio Suffolk has unveiled a new signing.After 17 years as a presenter and producer at BBC Radio Suffolk and a career in local radio spanning 28 years, Rachel has revealed her last programme will be broadcast on Easter Sunday.

RADIO presenter Rachel Sloane has announced her retirement from the airwaves - while Radio Suffolk has unveiled a new signing.

After 17 years as a presenter and producer at BBC Radio Suffolk and a career in local radio spanning 28 years, Rachel has revealed her last programme will be broadcast on Easter Sunday.

The presenter, who is known for her early weekend shows on Radio Suffolk, said: “It will be strange, for the first time in 28 years, not to be planning a programme, but I have decided to reclaim my weekend social life and cancel the 4am alarm call.”

Rachel is leaving radio to pursue Rachel Sloane Partnerships Ltd, launched in January 2006, to develop the full range of her skills in conference facilitation, public speaking and voice-over work.

She plans to expand the business to include media training and publicity consultation.

Although officially retiring from radio, Rachel will not be completely severing her ties with her listeners - she will continue to produce the Radio Suffolk Children in Need carol concert to be held on December 6 at St Mary's Church in Bury St Edmunds and other special projects.

As part of the changes, Lesley Dolphin will now host the Saturday morning show between 6pm and 9pm, focusing on countryside, environment and rural issues. Mark Murphy continues his 9am to 12pm Saturday show.

The station's new signing is Rob Chandler, a well known presenter in Suffolk and the voice of the PA at Ipswich Town's Portman Road stadium. He will present a new programme, starting on March 29, between 12pm and 2pm aimed at Ipswich Town fans.

Luke Deal will take over Rachel's Sunday morning faith show.