Carol Kirkwood, best known for presenting BBC Breakfast’s weather coverage, is leaving the BBC after more than 25 years.
Kirkwood, 63, said she has “loved every minute” of her time with the corporation, and said her decision to leave wasn’t “an easy” one to make.
She made the announcement during Tuesday’s (27 January) episode of BBC Breakfast and became emotional as she explained her decision to presenters Jon Kay and Sally Nugent.
“It’s really hard for me to say this because I love my job, I love all of you guys, my weather colleagues, all of the viewers,” she said. “But I don’t want to be coming in on a zimmer frame going, ‘I can’t reach the Northern Isles anymore.’”
In a statement, she added: “It feels like the right moment to step away. I’ll carry with me the most wonderful memories.”
“My job is something I’ve never taken for granted and I’ve loved every minute,” Kirkwood continued. “From early starts and all manner of forecasts, I’ve shared it with incredible colleagues at BBC Breakfast, BBC Weather and programmes across the BBC. I’d like to thank them for their support and friendship which has meant the world.
“To those watching and listening at home – thank you for all the kindness you have shown me over the years, being part of your mornings has been a joy.”
Kirkwood will leave the BBC in April.
BBC Breakfast presenter Nugent shared a tribute to her colleague on Instagram, writing: “We have laughed (a lot) through life’s dramas, sunny holidays and broken TV graphics. And now she’s off for adventures with her gorgeous husband Steve and to write more of her brilliant books.”
“I will miss her in the mornings,” she continued. “But I cannot wait for Carol’s next chapter.”
Fans have shared their sadness at Kirkwood’s exit in the comments on BBC Breakfast’s Instagram page, with one writing: “Really felt for you as you fought back tears! You will be missed.”
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“Couldn’t be more delighted for you Carol, but honestly I’m devastated at this news!” said another. “You are such a part of our mornings and they just won’t be the same without you! Saying that I wish you nothing but the absolute best for your long and happy retirement.”
Kirkwood joined the BBC Weather Centre in April 1998 and began broadcasting on the BBC News channel, before making regular appearances on BBC One. She has been BBC Breakfast’s main weather presenter since 2010.
Kirkwood has often presented bulletins from events such as Wimbledon and the Chelsea Flower Show, and reported for The One Show. In 2015, Kirkwood took part in Strictly Come Dancing and reached week eight of the competition with her professional partner Pasha Kovalev.
Jonathan Munro, the interim CEO of BBC News, said: “From major national moments to the everyday forecasts that are such an important part of our audiences’ lives, she has set the gold standard for our accurate, valued journalism – always delivered with an appropriately sunny outlook.
“She will be greatly missed by teams across the BBC. We wish her all the best for the future.”