Battle of the DJ blondes

Drivetime is about to become more interesting as best friends Sara Cox and Zoe Ball become radio rivals.

The pair will go head-to-head after Cox was ousted yesterday from her Radio One breakfast show and moved to Chris Moyles' afternoon slot.

The shake-up, which takes place in January, puts Cox in competition with Ball, who hosts the afternoon show on London station Xfm.

Ball said last night: 'She was my bridesmaid and is the godmother to my child and now she's my rival! I'm really chuffed for her.'

But she added the warning: 'If she thinks she's going to be taking any of my Xfm listeners, she can think again. The gloves will be coming off and, believe me, I've got strong nails.'

Cox, 28, took over the breakfast show from Ball three-and-a-half years ago but her audience has plummeted.

She courted controversy after talking about Jamie Theakston's genitalia and comedian Ali G swore on her show.

She said: 'I have had a great time but I have to say the thought of finally being able to have a lie-in is extremely appealing.'

Chris Moyles has been given the task of getting the morning slot back on track with his loud-mouthed, brash presenting style.

Customarily modest, he said: 'I've said for ages that I am the saviour of Radio One. Now it looks as if I am finally going to have the chance to prove it.'