Gareth moves to drive time and the women make night moves

5FM newcomer Gareth Cliff will take over the coveted afternoon drive time slot, followed by the night moves of Nicole Fox in the early evening show, followed by Zuraida Jardine in the late night slot.

The move comes with the departure of current drive time DJ Darren Scott, who is leaving 5FM to pursue other interests.

Said Acting Station Manager, John Langford: "Just Plain Darren has had considerable success in attracting audiences in line with the prevailing strategy at 5FM over the past seven years. The station is however embarking on a new strategic direction, as evidenced by our line-up changes in December, the result of which is a more contemporary, progressive sound. Unfortunately, we effectively reached a crossroads that has led to Darren's departure. He has enormous talent and we wish him well in his future endeavors. We are fortunate in having an exceptional talent in Gareth Cliff who is ready to make 5FM afternoons his own.

"It's also really encouraging for me to see strong, powerful women with attitude taking their rightful place in the radio spotlight in a serious way. Nicole and Zuraida will change night time radio in the country and together with newcomer Koula, 5FM gives girl power new impetus."

Said Darren Scott on his move: "I have enjoyed my time at 5FM, but life has a way of throwing new challenges at me, and I'm looking forward to the future. I wish the station every success."

Gareth Cliff, who joined 5FM in November last year commented on the changes: "Darren is one of the nicest people in radio. He's a friend of mine and I am delighted and proud to be able to take over the show from him."

5FM also recently signed a new two-year contract with breakfast show DJ Mark Gillman.

Added SABC General Manager of Commercial Radio, Randall Abrahams: "5FM's future growth is based upon these successful transitions and a comprehensive understanding of the prevailing market conditions that have prompted them."

April also sees the rollout of the new 5FM brand campaign – a new logo for the station and a new TV ad created by the station's advertising agency Net#work BBDO.

The full 5FM Line-up for Monday to Friday is:

01h00 - 04h00 : Dicksy Ngqula
04h00 - 06h00 : Koula
06h00 - 09h00 : The Mark Gillman Show
09h00 - 12h00 : Ian F
12h00 - 15h00 : Sasha Martinengo
15h00 - 18h00 : Gareth Cliff
18h00 - 22h00 : Nicole Fox
22h00 - 01h00 : Zuraida Jardine