Jack "the lad" Hayes is a familiar name to many people in Sussex as the former long standing host of the Heart Sussex breakfast show, a position Jack held for over fifteen years making him one of the longest serving same show breakfast presenters in the UK. Over those years Jack’s cheeky chappy character amassed a following and support from the local community, however what many people may not be aware of is the journey he went on before finding his place in radio. Jack was bought up in very poor and tough surroundings in south London, struggled at school and struggled to find his identity and place in the world. Once he had finished school, Jack bounced around jobs which led him to live a somewhat hedonistic lifestyle.

​​

When presented with that first opportunity to begin working in radio, Jack faced a crucial crossroad where he had two paths to choose from: one that had the potential to define his future and lead to a successful career, and the other that would maintain his current situation. He seized the positive opportunity and never looked back.

Now, after fifteen years and receiving numerous national awards, Jack feels compelled to give back to the Sussex community that embraced him and support local youth in making informed decisions about their own future. His goal is to guide them towards the right paths and share the valuable life lessons he has learned throughout his journey. By sharing his personal and professional insights alongside inspirational content that reinforce not only his own beliefs but also the core themes of the programme, Jack aims to instill confidence, determination, and the belief necessary for young people to succeed in life.

​