Dan Walker leaving 'Football Focus' after 12 years

Watch: Dan Walker is stepping down from Football Focus

Dan Walker has announced that he is quitting Football Focus after 12 years.

The presenter said he had “loved every single second” on the BBC show but that it was time for somebody else to take over.

"Hello, I have some news," he said in a video shared on Twitter.

"This is going to be my last season presenting Football Focus.

"It’s been a real pleasure, an amazing 12 years and I can honestly say I have loved every single second of it.

Read more: BBC Breakfast's Louise Minchin reveals 'maverick' sausage sandwich condiment

"I’m really proud about the job that we’ve done, the changes we’ve made to the show, the issues that we’ve looked at, and at a time when the football landscape is changing immeasurably.

"But, having said all that, after 12 years it’s time for someone else to take the reins."

Walker said that he was going to miss "the magic of the programme" and all of the opportunities that it had given him.

"The many friends I’ve made along the way and the thousands and thousands of conversations that I’ve had with people who thankfully love the show just as much as I do," added the 44-year-old.

However, Walker assured fans that he would not be "disappearing" as he will continue as a presenter on BBC Breakfast and would still be seen elsewhere across BBC Sport, including the Olympics.

"I’m also really looking forward to letting you know about one or two other exciting opportunities further down the road," he went on.

"The last thing I want to say is thank you.

"First of all to the amazing team behind the programme who put in so much love, care and effort every single week to get us on air.

"And thank you for all the comments, all the questions and for tuning in, giving us record audiences for a programme that’s been on air since 1974."

"I really hope you enjoy the rest of the season and I’ll see you soon," he concluded.

Read more: Louise Minchin 'My Christmas tree is still up'

Fans said they would be sorry to see Walker go, with one posting on Twitter that it was "the end of an era".

"Have to say I am rather gutted. I once remarked to my mate Si, one of your producers, that you're the most natural presenter I've ever seen," said another.

"Sorry to hear this Dan, you've made the programme essential viewing in the last 12 years, I'm pretty sure I watched every episode!" said another fan.

Watch: Lewis Hamilton named BBC Sports personality of the year 2020