Stephen Grootes takes over Midday Report

Talk Radio 702 and 567 CapeTalk have announced that Eyewitness News (EWN) senior political reporter, Stephen Grootes, will be taking over the Midday Report as of September.

Grootes replaces broadcast veteran, Chris Gibbons, who is moving on to pursue other opportunities after 32 years with the stations.

Primedia Broadcasting CEO, Terry Volkwyn, said: “Chris has been presenting the Midday Report for the past eight years. He has worn many hats while being with us and he leaves behind a lasting legacy.”

The Midday Report is an hour-long current affairs show that brings listeners up to date with the latest breaking news and information, analysis, interviews and comments. It is simulcast on both 702 and CapeTalk and has won a number of awards, including an MTN Radio Award for 2011.

“Listeners will always remember Chris for getting to the bottom of issues and he will always be an inspiration to broadcast journalists,” added Volkwyn.

Gibbons will officially be leaving at the end of August.

“We wish Chris well in his future endeavours,” said Volkwyn.

Talk Radio 702 Station Manager, Pheladi Gwangwa and 567 CapeTalk Station Manager, Colleen Louw, said: “We are pleased to welcome Stephen Grootes to the Midday Report. We are confident that he will do well. He has previously filled in for Chris and other presenters. He has years of experience in news and current affairs.”

Grootes will continue his role at EWN as a senior political reporter.

Grootes said: “I am absolutely thrilled and excited and I’m looking forward to hosting the Midday Report which is South Africa’s premier news and current affairs show. It’s a huge opportunity to speak to newsmakers and give our listeners the very best understanding of news events as they happen, when they happen”.

Gibbons said: “I  would like to emphasise that we part company on the best of terms. Primedia and I go back 32 years in one form or another and both parties value that long association. However, I do feel it is time for a change of emphasis in my professional life. I wish both Talk Radio 702 and 567 Cape Talk all success – and perhaps our paths will cross again in the future.”