Persad, who will also continue his current role with the Attheraces channel, will begin working for the BBC in late April and will work as a presenter and reporter.

Bartlett, who has worked for Sky Television, the Racing Channel and Radio Five Live, will join the BBC's commentary team for the Ascot meeting on 29 March.

"We're delighted to announce these two appointments, which we feel will complement our existing racing line-up," said BBC Head of General Sport Barbara Slater.

"Both Rishi and Ian bring an immense amount of knowledge and experience with them and their appointment will further strengthen our commitment to quality racing coverage."

Persad said: "I'm delighted to join such an internationally recognised broadcaster as the BBC and look forward to working with such established names as Clare Balding on the BBC's racing coverage."