Diane Louise Jordan grew up in Hatfield, Hertfordshire. She's best known by many as a presenter of Songs of Praise.

Following in a long line of Sunday Half Hour presenters since the programme was first broadcast in July 1940, Diane, a committed Christian herself, acknowledges the importance of Sunday Half Hour in the lives of its many listeners: "I feel both privileged and excited about being invited to present such an established and much-loved BBC gem."

Diane's own faith will be reflected in the continuing tradition of biblical themes and spiritual reflection, so important to Sunday Half Hour listeners.

Initially trained as an actress, Diane has a degree in Theatre Arts. After seven years on the road touring with theatre companies, Diane spent a further six years as one of the presenters on BBC television's flagship children's programme Blue Peter.

Diane is involved with a number of charities including Action for Children (formally NCH), Family Futures and Toybox. Diane is Patron of The Oasis Trust, sat on the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Committee, and has been a trustee for The Prince's Trust and the BBC's Children in Need appeal.

Asked about her favourite hymn, Diane has trouble choosing from the many wonderful hymns and songs written over the centuries, but, like so many listeners, ultimately picks: How great Thou art.