Broadcaster Kay Burley has announced she is retiring from Sky News after 36 years with the channel.
She made the announcement on Wednesday morning at the end of her breakfast programme, which was her last day on air with the broadcaster.
The veteran journalist, 64, was one of the original hosts who helped launch Sky News in 1989 and she has presented the morning slot since 2019.
Closing her show, she said: “After over a million minutes of live TV news, more than anyone else in the world, it’s time for me to indulge in some of my other passions, including my love for travel.
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“So, after covering 12 separate general elections, including Sir Keir Starmer’s victory last year, I am retiring from Sky News; let politicians of every party just rejoice at that news.
“Thank-you for waking up and tuning in every morning. I can’t tell you how much I have appreciated your support over the last three-and-a-half decades – you’re awesome.
“I will post more on my social media and hope to see you around. Please keep in touch.”
Her last day coincided with Sky News’s 36th birthday and she used her final moments to pay tribute to how it had progressed from a “standing start to one of the most recognised and valued brands in global news”.
She added: “It’s been an honour and privilege to work with some of the best and hardest working teams in the business.
“News by its very nature is often devastating, and together we’ve covered so many life-changing events – from the tragic death of Diana, the shocking terror attack of 9/11, the Asian tsunami, the Concorde air disaster.
“But we’ve also enjoyed some wonderful high notes too, haven’t we? The thrill of London winning the chance to host the 2012 Olympics, a plethora of royal weddings, jubilees, and who can forget days and days and days of waiting for royal babies to arrive at the Lindo Wing.”
In a note shared with staff on Wednesday, Sky News executive chairman David Rhodes thanked Burley for her “huge contribution to Sky, to the art of the interview and to British journalism”, and wished her “the best of luck”.
He added: “With millions of minutes presenting live rolling news, Kay’s legacy in television journalism is unmatched, as is her commitment to Sky’s legacy.
“I’m sure some MPs in Westminster will sleep easy knowing they won’t face her indomitable questioning in the mornings.
“Kay confirmed that today was her final broadcast with Sky News. Of course, Breakfast continues – with the other current presenters and with our Friday-Sunday team.” – PA Wire
