Crowd gasps as 2HD radio boss Guy Ashford ‘GROPES’ presenter Cheralyn Darcey on stage as she accepts an award
A regional radio executive who groped a staff member in front of a live audience at the Australian Voice Awards has been sacked.
Guy Ashford, boss of Newcastle radio station 2HD, hugged award winner Cheralyn Darcey and then grabbed her behind with his left hand while she was on stage at Sydney’s Carriageworks on Thursday night.
He then raised his arms in the air as the crowd gasped.
Darcey, who works as a radio presenter in Ashford, received the best newcomer award.
‘Okay…’ said one of the awards night presenters.
“The radio spirit is still alive and well,” added another.
2HD is owned by Super Radio Network, which also owns Sydney station 2SM.
Super Radio Network chief executive Graham Mott said he had apologized to Ms Darcey and her husband and Mr Ashford had been suspended.
2HD boss Guy Ashford is seen grabbing award winner Cheralyn Darcey from behind as they embrace on stage at the Australian Voice Awards.
Ashford was withdrawn by 2HD owner Super Radio Network due to the incident
Cheralyn Darcey (pictured) was well known in the industry for her presenting job when she was groped by her boss
“We will have further discussions on the matter,” Mr Mott told Mediaweek.
Darcey was recognized at the awards for her role in 2HD’s The Nightline, which aired from 8pm to midnight in Newcastle and was networked in multiple venues including 2SM in Sydney.
Many participants made statements about the incident.
“What a disgusting thing,” one of them told Mediaweek. ‘I feel so sorry for Cheralyn.’
