Jon Snow leaving Channel 4 News after 32 years

Jon Snow has announced that he is stepping down from Channel 4 News after 32 years.

The broadcaster, 73, said he would be leaving at the end of this year, as it is “time to move on”.

He said in a statement that he felt “proud” to have contributed to Channel 4 News and was looking forward to new challenges.

Snow said: "After three incredible decades on Channel 4 News, it is time to move on. I am excited by the many things I want to accomplish but I have to say I have enjoyed every minute of my time with the programme.

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“It has brought me adventure, as well as sorrow in some of the stories that I have had to report and also joy in reporting others, but above all, it has brought me community in working with the most fantastic group of people who are bound in intellect, humour and understanding.

“Together, we have forged a wonderful service.”

The journalist – who announced last month that he and his wife Precious had welcomed a baby boy – went on: “I feel proud to have contributed to Channel 4 News let alone to have anchored the programme for the last 32 years.”

“I’m looking forward to new adventures and new challenges,” he added.

Snow, who is the longest-serving presenter in the show’s history, will continue to work with Channel 4 after stepping down.

According to a news release, he will “front longer form projects for Channel 4 and represent the channel in other matters”.

“He will also focus on his charities and some of his many passions in life, peoples' stories, inequality, Africa, Iran and the arts,” it said.

Channel 4 News editor Ben de Pear said Snow had been "the driving force behind Channel 4 News for the last 30 years”.

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“His fearless journalism, inherent compassion, a nose for a good story as well as sympathy for the underdog have been powered by relentless energy, charm and a mischievous sense of fun,” he said.

“It has been a great honour to be his editor and friend, and I know that everyone at Channel 4 News and ITN feels that he is far more than a colleague.”

He added that Snow’s contribution “will live on and undoubtedly continue elsewhere”.

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