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Simon McCoy leaving BBC News after 18 years

BBC newsreader Simon McCoy (BBC)
BBC newsreader Simon McCoy (BBC)

BBC News presenter Simon McCoy has confirmed he is stepping down after 18 years.

News of the journalist’s departure emerged on Twitter on Thursday, after a floor manager on the programme posted a message saying it was good to be working with McCoy in his final week.

The post got fans wondering and when one asked McCoy if he was leaving, he replied: “After 18 years.. Last day today.”

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McCoy's colleague had shared a series of pictures from behind the scenes in his post about the 59-year-old newsreader.

He said: "If you think he's a handful on-screen, imagine what he's like off it?

"Only got to floor manage 4 years of his 17+ at @BBCNews so was nice to do his final week.

Simon McCoy - (BBC)
Simon McCoy - (BBC)

"Made the dreariest of heavy news days instantly more manageable.

"May the road rise up to meet you @BBCSimonMcCoy."

McCoy, who is in a relationship with former Dynasty star Emma Samms, started at the BBC in 2004, having previously worked at Thames TV and Sky.

A post from the BBC press team account said: “Sharp, funny & a great colleague - it has been a delight to have @BBCSimonMcCoy at the helm of the BBC News Channel & News at One.

"We’ll miss his one-liners, pregnant pauses & commitment to breaking news in every form, & wish him the very best for the future.”

Fans also posted messages saying they were sorry to see McCoy go.

“Speedrunning the stages of grief at this very moment because Simon McCoy's leaving BBC News today,” said one viewer.

“Absolutely devastated that Simon McCoy is leaving the BBC,” tweeted another.

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“No Simon McCoy leaving?” asked one disappointed fan. “And I thought this year couldn't get worse... however best wishes for his next adventure.”

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