Legendary Scots BBC host Carol Kirkwood to quit weather presenting role after more than 25 years
VETERAN BBC star Carol Kirkwood broke down in tears as she revealed she plans to leave the broadcaster.
The 63-year-old weather presenter has been with the Beeb for over 25 years.
Kirkwood, originally from Morar in the Highlands, will leave the corporation in April.
She said she has “loved every minute” of her time at the BBC.
Announcing her decision, Kirkwood said: “This hasn’t been an easy decision to make, but it feels like the right moment to step away.
“I’ll carry with me the most wonderful memories.”
Kirkwood has been a familiar face most mornings through her work on BBC Breakfast.
She undertook her meteorology training at The Weather Channel, the Met Office and the BBC.
Kirkwood joined the BBC Weather Centre in April 1998 and started broadcasting on the BBC News channel.
She has appeared regularly on BBC One over the years and has been the main weather presenter on BBC Breakfast since 2010.
Reflecting on her decades of work at the BBC, Kirkwood said: “My job is something I’ve never taken for granted and I’ve loved every minute.
“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.”
She added: “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 has presented weather updates from various locations outside the studio, including the Chelsea Flower Show and Wimbledon.
She has also picked up several gongs, including the best weather presenter at the TV and Radio Industries Awards.
Jonathan Munro, 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.”
