RTÉ's Afternoon Show has been axed and will be replaced by two shorter shows, the Sunday Tribune understands.

According to an RTÉ source, the old format has been ditched in favour of the two new programmes, with Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh, Maura Derrane, Kathryn Thomas and Caroline Morahan all being tipped as possible presenters for the new slots.

"There was a lot of uncertainty over what was going to happen to the show, but researchers and staff within the previous afternoon show were informed of the decision recently and there was relief on that front," said a source.

A spokeswoman for the station would not be drawn on what formats the new shows would take, but it is understood RTE will announce plans next Thursday at its autumn TV launch.

Uncertainty hung over the Afternoon Show when Green Inc, which produces the show, revealed last March it had not renewed its contract with RTÉ.

An RTÉ spokeswoman refused to comment on the changes, saying: "We're not in a position to confirm any details about our daytime programming in advance of seasonal and programme announcements to come."

Station bosses are meanwhile said to be impressed with Derrane after positive reviews from viewers. One source on the show said Derrane had proved herself as a competent presenter.

"When she began she was somewhat nervous, but it is being noticed that she is getting better and more confident as time goes on. She is a shoo-in for a job presenting one of the new shows."

The show has been beset by problems in the past after a spate of well-publicised problems between presenters. There were allegations of bullying between co-presenters Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh and Sheana Keane, after which Ní Chofaigh quit the show, citing health problems.

The controversy was said to have tarnished the image of the programme despite constant attempts to change the format and design. The show, which began in 2004, has had a number of presenters including Síle and Grainne Seoige and Anna Nolan.