There is mounting speculation that 702 ABC afternoon presenter, James Valentine, will be appointed permament replacement for the departed Angela Catterns on breakfast.

Valentine, 43, has already moved in as ‘temporary’ host, as 702 management tries to find a new breakfast host as quickly as possible, and he appears to be firming to take the job on a full time basis.

According to Sue Javes in The Sydney Morning Herald’s The Guide, ABC management believes Valentine’s warmth and quick wit make him a perfect successor to Catterns. It is understood Valentine is keen, however he does have some reservations.

Valentine believes radio is all about fun and humour, not interviewing politicians etc.

ABC management is reportedly considering a rejig of the breakfast and morning shifts (Sally Loane), which would make them consistent with its Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide stations.

774 in Melbourne begins the day with Red Symons on breakfast until 7.45am. At 8.30, after news and ‘AM’, the Jon Faine steps in and takes over the harder hitting news of the day.

ABC Local Radio head, Michael Mason, will not speculate on Valentine as the ‘preferred’ candidate, telling Javes: “It’s too early to make that call.

“We’re looking at a whole range of people. He’s definitely one we’re considering, along with some other people as well.”

Angela Catterns finished up at 702 on Friday (see radioinfo’s other story) and has a few weeks off before starting breakfast with DMG’s new Sydney station, 95.3 FM.