Evans has presented a weekend show on Radio 2 since September

Evans - who currently presents a Radio 2 show on Saturday afternoons - will start his weekday show on 18 April.

"To take over from Johnnie Walker is an absolute honour," said the 39-year-old. "The guy is a legend; he helped me get my first job at the BBC back in 1990."

Walker announced he was stepping down earlier this week after seven years as host of the popular early evening show.

"After seven years on one show I feel it's time for a change," he said.

Radio talent

"Drivetime is hugely important," Evans continued. "In many ways it mirrors the breakfast show as a transition for people between work and home.

"It's our job to help that journey be less of a thing to dread and more of a thing to look forward to."

"Johnnie Walker is a hard act to follow," said Lesley Douglas, controller of Radio 2.

"Chris Evans is a brilliant radio talent who has already scored a hit with his weekend show. I know he will give the audience a great new show for weekdays."