BBC presenter bids sad farewell to colleague as he marks ‘end of era’ (Image: BBC)
A beloved member of the Look North team has bowed out after an incredible 40 years with the .
Nigel Clarke, a director who worked behind the scenes on thousands of bulletins, pressed the buttons for the last time as he headed into retirement.
Presenter Phillip Norton led the tributes to his colleague, sharing a message alongside a photo of Nigel. “End of an era tonight. This is our lovely director Nigel Clarke, who after 40 years and directing thousands of @looknorthBBC bulletins, is pressing the buttons one last time before he retires,” Phillip wrote.
“Thanks for everything Nigel and sorry you’ve got me for your final show.”
Viewers also praised Nigel’s dedication. One fan called him “the backbone of the profession” and an “unsung hero,” while another wished him “all the very best”.
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BBC Look North director Nigel is retiring after 40 years (Image: BBC)
Nigel’s retirement is the latest in a wave of departures from the . Jenny Hill, a foreign correspondent for 24 years, recently announced her exit.
She reflected on her career in a touching post, writing: “Personal update: I’m leaving the today after 24 years. What a privilege it’s been to travel the world and tell people’s stories.
“Thanks to the many lovely colleagues whose talent, courage and friendship have made it such a pleasure.”
News analysis editor Ros Atkins responded: “We’re going to miss you, Jenny. Best of luck,” while chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet called her “a distinctive broadcaster and kind colleague.”
Earlier in March, Look North also said goodbye to presenter Jeff Brown after 21 years. A familiar face since 2003, Jeff specialised in sport but frequently stepped in to anchor news bulletins.
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Hannah Gray has announced her departure from BBC Look North (Image: Hannahgraybbc) (Image: BBC/Hannah Gray)
He hinted at future projects, writing: “News just in…after nearly 21yrs with Look North @BBCLN I’m moving on. Projects in the pipeline with & others, but (as you can see) it’s been fun, and a huge, wonderful part of my life. Thanks for watching.”
Reflecting on his career, Jeff called presenting the show “the undoubted highlight of my career”.
He added: “Sport has always been my passion – whatever colour the team is wearing, or the shape of the ball! I hope I’ve been able to reflect the depth of feeling fans have for their teams, because in that respect our region is unique.”
Meanwhile, in November, at the regional programme Look North, marking the end of her time in Yorkshire. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Hannah shared her bittersweet news with her followers as she looked ahead to new opportunities.
“LAST breakfast shift at Look North! After a fantastic 5 years here in Yorkshire, we’re moving back to London in early December,” she wrote.
“I will very much miss my amazing friends, colleagues, and the beautiful countryside here, but we’ll be moving closer to family and are really looking forward to catching up with old colleagues and friends in the capital.”
The announcement emerged just a day after just days after Zoe Ball announced she is leaving her Radio 2 Breakfast show.