Radio Review: 24 October

Last week, I heard one of the most powerful and moving bits of radio I’ve heard in a long while. When Simon Hirst stepped down from presenting Capital Yorkshire’s breakfast show in June, after 11 years, many assumed he had received a big offer elsewhere. Why else would someone who lives and breathes radio give up such a high-profile job while still topping the ratings?

The answer came when Hirst announced to Stephen Nolan on Radio 5 Live that he was in the process of transitioning from male to female, and becoming Stephanie. For the first time in his life, radio took second place to this massive life change, although it has emerged that Capital, lacking enlightenment, forced his hand.

The interview was compelling radio. Nolan was impressive, treating Hirst with sensitivity and respect, while asking some very frank questions. Hirst, equally unfl inching, tackled it with eloquence and humour. The interview was with Simon, but Nolan asked to hear Stephanie’s voice. Suddenly self-conscious, Hirst – a skilled voice artist – couldn’t quite find the register.

As I listened, I was full of admiration for this brave person. In the last few years, I’ve become good friends with Hirst, a kind, warm, generous, funny human being, and a fellow anorak. Moreover, very few people get to the top in any business without making a few enemies. I’ve yet to meet anyone who dislikes Hirst.

This has been reflected in the overwhelmingly positive response online. Hirst later returned to thank Nolan’s listeners for their kindness. This time, the voice left no doubt. We were listening to Stephanie, and she sounded great.

Listen to the interview at www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04k8s
Louis on Twitter: @LFBarfe or email: wireless@cheeseford.net