fond farewell
BBC star stuns fans by revealing she’s going off air – just months after landing new gig
Fans were quick to wish her well for the future
GEMMA Oaten has revealed she's heading off air - just months after securing a gig with BBC Radio Humberside.
The former Emmerdale actress, 40, began hosting her show back in May to stand in for a colleague.
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Taking to Instagram, Gemma posted a lengthy message to her followers, revealing her stint as guest host was over.
She penned: "What a joy it's been to join [BBC Radio Humberside].
"My last show covering yesterday was a beaut experience.
"I started with BBC Humberside in May & can't express how much this job has meant... no actually... means to me!
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"This isn't the end, it's just the beginning."
Fans were quick to share their support, as one commented: "You were such a natural. I am sure you will be asked to do it again.
"I will never forget your laughter, I laughed with you."
Another added: "Gemma being a radio presenter is yet another string to your talented bow.
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"You are an amazing lady."
While a third remarked: "Well done, it's harder than people think."
Best of Gemma Oaten starring as Rachel Breckle in ITV's Emmerdale
A fourth chimed in: "You know as one door closes, several more open. Well done."
In a follow up post, Gemma elaborated on her stint on the show and reassured fans by saying she was "not going anywhere" and would be back on the airwaves at the station soon.
She added: "They're amazing & I can't wait to do more there & beyond. Exciting times!"
Previously, Gemma played the role of Rachel Breckle in Emmerdale from 2011 to 2014.
She returned to the soap in early 2015, but departed once again by the end of that year.
In 2019, the character of Rachel was killed off-screen, therefore ruling out a future return for Gemma.
BBC departures and returns
LEAVING/LEFT
Newsnight's Mark Urban after 35 years on air
Claudia Winkleman quitting BBC Radio 2 after 15 years
Correspondent Robin Brant after two decades
Sports presenter Garry Richardson after 50 years
BBC Radio star Jason Rosam after 16 years on air
Jordan North quitting Radio 1 and moving to Capital
RETURNING/RETURNED
Martine Croxall after launching legal action against the Beeb
Karin Giannone after a horror injury and year off air
Annita McVeigh after losing out on a chief presenter job last year
Geeta Guru-Murthy after also being off air for more than a year
The star concluded her statement: "Because right now, all I can reflect on is what I've achieved, the people that have helped me achieve it and the gratitude I feel.
"Never give up on your dreams. Don't let doubt rule you.
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"You have more power and ability than you know.
"Give it a shot, please."
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