John Barker to present Totally Irish on 98FM for the last time this weekend

John Barker will host Totally Irish on Dublin's 98FM for the last time this Sunday.

Taking to Twitter, the presenter shared the news, noting that he first hosted the popular show – which highlights the best of Irish music, and features interviews and in-studio sessions – in January 2010.

"It’s been a huge part of my life over the last 12 years and I’ve loved every minute of it," he stated. "I’m really going to miss doing the show. Thank you for listening to the show.Thank you to all the musicians & industry people I’ve interviewed and worked with. Thank you to all the beautiful friends I’ve made over the 12 years. Thank you to each member of Team Totally Irish..."

He revealed that the final show, airing on Sunday night at 9pm, "will be a two hour trip down memory lane featuring some of the highlights of the last 12 years."

Barker also invited fans of the show to celebrate with himself and the Totally Irish team at the upcoming TiLT (Totally Irish Live Tuesday) show in the Button Factory, Dublin on February 24 – featuring Gurriers, Floor Show and Panik Attaks.

"You should be very proud of the tireless support you've given Irish artists," Hot Press's Stuart Clark wrote, in response to the news. "Here's to the next chapter!"

Colm Mac Con Iomaire also thanked Barker "for supporting the Irish Music Community for all these years."

"Thanks for everything John, our visits to the 98 studio are really fond memories of mine," Tebi Rex wrote. "You were one of the first to have us in – really do appreciate everything you’ve done for us."

"What a legacy you have left John," Today FM's Ed Smith commented. "Truly one of the greatest champions of Irish music there's ever been. You opened your studio door and people's ears to every genre and gave countless artists that most vital of gifts, the chance to be heard. I'll miss that handsome face."

Listen to John Barker's final Totally Irish show this Sunday, January 30, from 9–11pm.