15 August 2023 , 20:48
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Former Soccer Saturday reporter Bianca Westwood has joined talkSPORT after leaving Sky Sports.
Westwood spent over 22 years at Sky Sports and became a familiar face on Soccer Saturday, where she travelled around the country to update supporters. But she joined the exodus from the broadcaster at the end of the 2022/23 season and has now confirmed her new job.
Westwood tweeted: “Still got a headset but I’m making my debut for a new team tonight! Around the grounds with @TheAdrianDurham on @talkSPORT & I’ll be doing updates from Adams Park. Very excited.”
Another ex-Soccer Saturday favourite Chris Kamara replied: “Good luck Bee. Talksport have got themselves a goodun.”
Westwood is joined by former Soccer Saturday presenter Jeff Stelling at talkSPORT after the long-serving presenter vacated his seat at Sky Sports.
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Stelling has replaced Laura Woods as talkSPORT's new breakfast presenter following his departure from Sky Sports. The 68-year-old had been at Sky for over 25 years but was replaced by Simon Thomas on Soccer Saturday.
Earlier this month Westwood wrote an emotional goodbye to Sky Sports. She posted on Instagram : “A bit like when I did my first match report, I didn’t want to make a fuss but I’ve had SO many messages & questions about where I’ll be today I thought I might as well let you know.
“I haven’t quite made enough money to retire unfortunately, but I am retiring from Sky Sports & Soccer Saturday. It’s been a phenomenal 22 & a half years & I’ve been a small part of building the channel into the giant of broadcasting it is today. What a ride!
“Being the first female match reporter on Soccer Saturday is something I’m immensely proud of & that can never be taken away from me. I’ve covered hundreds & hundreds of games, I’ve interviewed hundreds of players & managers. I’ve watched hours & hours of football. Years of experience (I said what I said!) that will live with me forever.
“For the most part, it’s been a blast. I’m grateful to you the viewers for watching over the years & for all your support. To those I’ve worked with who’ve been a big part of my life at Sky, you know who you are, thanks for the memories. On to the next chapter. Buzzing for it.”
Her exit from Soccer Saturday came alongside the departures of her colleagues Guy Havord, Dickie Davis, Greg Whelan, Lynsey Hooper and Jaydee Dyer. The change in personnel came as part of a wider raft of changes at Sky Sports, who also axed long-running show Soccer AM.