A BBC presenter has bid farewell to the broadcaster after staggering 35 years in his role.
Look East stalwart Mike Liggins said it was his decision to leave, admitting it was “time for a change” in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Known to viewers as “Liggo”, Mike started out in sports broadcasting as a reporter for Coventry-based Mercia Sound in 1984.
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A news stint at ITV London Tonight followed, before he settled at the Beeb in 1987, presenting BBC Radio Norfolk’s Sunday morning breakfast show.
He will mostly be remembered for his on-screen work in the East of England, however, where he has been a constant in so many lives for a generation.
Announcing his departure on August 9, much-loved Mike wrote: “After 35 years, I’ve decided to leave the BBC. Time for a change.
“But what an adventure! I feel very lucky. I’ll be on Look East till Oct 6th ..and after that I haven’t got a clue!
“For now, I just want to say thanks to all my colleagues and to you the viewer/follower. Mike x.”
Many of his 8,000 followers on the platform were quick to wish him well, meanwhile, with one declaring: “A true broadcasting legend. I think I’ll remember you most fondly as World Cup Mike – no one did it better. You’ll be sorely missed.”
Another commented: “Wow, that really is the end of an era, gutted to be honest, you are genuinely a lovely guy. Loved welcoming you into our home between 6.30 and 7.00 weekday evenings. Good luck Mike in your next adventure and keep us posted on what it entails, Look East won’t be the same.”
A third added: “One of the greatest broadcasters and reporters to ever grace our screens. Mike you are a legend and I look forward to seeing you on our excursions round the villages.”
And a fourth said: “Mike you are one of the best at what you do and a lovely person, a joy to work with. Such a sad loss for BBC East and all the viewers. I wish you all the best for the future whatever it holds xx.”
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The BBC’s Senior Head of Content Production for East and London, Robert Thompson also paid a glowing tribute to the star.
“Over the last 35 years, Mike has made more than 6,000 TV reports for Look East,” he said.
“He always gets to the heart of a story and has a brilliant way with words. Mike will be enormously missed, both by his colleagues and our viewers.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
