Former WKYT (Channel 27) meteorologist Chris Bailey is returning to the station for one night later this week to fill in while chief meteorologist T.G. Shuck is recovering from an appendectomy.

Shuck began feeling ill Friday and had his appendix removed Saturday night, said WKYT News Director Robert Thomas.

Shuck is expected back next week.

Weekend meteorologist Lauren Raymer has been filling in for him on the early-evening and late-night newscasts this week but has a family commitment Friday.

Bailey, who left the station in 2008 after a 10-year stint, will take those spots Friday, Thomas said.

Bailey now works for WSAZ in Huntington, W.Va., where his work schedule is better suited to his family's schedule.

WSAZ is owned by WKYT's parent company, Gray Television, so Bailey's new employer was able to help out.

"That's the great thing about the fact that Chris stayed within the company," Thomas said. "Chris still has a lot of ties to the area and the station, and it's great that WSAZ can help us out."

Reach Scott Sloan at (859) 231-1447 or 1-800-950-6397, Ext. 1447.