CRIMEWATCH presenter Kirsty Young is stepping down after seven years, saying it was a “privilege” to host the show.
The 47-year-old will helm her last Crimewatch programme on BBC One in December.
Young joined Crimewatch in 2008. She worked on many high profile appeals, including the disappearance of Madeleine McCann and the Hatton Garden heist.
“There are very few TV programmes that are part of the national fabric and my years working with the Crimewatch team have been a great privilege,” she said in a statement.
“With the crucial help of viewers the show has played a pivotal role in solving crimes for more than 30 years. Long may that invaluable work continue.”
A new BBC Crimewatch presenter will be announced in due course.
The Scottish star will remain a key face in BBC Events coverage, and will continue to present Desert Island Discs on BBC Radio 4.
Young has been lined up to present Cue The Queen: Celebrating the Christmas Speech.
The special one-hour documentary will explore the long and historic tradition of the Monarch’s Christmas message.
Now an intrinsic part of the holiday season, the programme will reflect the social and technological changes three generations of the monarchy have witnessed over the past 80 years.
Young will uncover the history of this tradition which originated in 1932, when King George V broadcast the first live address on the wireless.
In 2016, the presenter will host a special one-hour programme honouring the work of Sir David Attenborough in his 90th birthday year.
Inspiring Attenborough: Sir David at 90 will celebrate the veteran broadcaster’s invaluable contribution to television.
Recorded in front of a studio audience, Young will talk to Sir David about his career, which has spanned seven decades.
Charlotte Moore, Controller of BBC One, said: “Kirsty has been such an integral part of Crimewatch over the last seven years and she will be greatly missed.
“Nevertheless, Kirsty will continue to play an important role on BBC One and I’m looking forward to her special documentary about The Queen’s Christmas message next month.”Bargain Hunt drama as Tim Wonnacott quits show after suspension rumours – click here to read more
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