23 August 2023 , 22:13
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A BBC news presenter got teary live on air as she bid an emotional farewell to viewers after four decades.
Louise Priest has been the anchor of Look East for over 40 years where she has fronted the morning and lunchtime bulletins. She announced earlier this week that she was departing the show and her final programme has now aired.
As she bid her goodbyes, Louise got emotional and had to wipe away some tears from her eyes. She told her loyal viewers on the BBC : "Well, this is my last bulletin for Look East. I'd just like to say how much I've enjoyed bringing the news to you. I wasn't going to do this! Thank you for keeping me company over the years and don't forget Look East is here at six thirty!"
Louise revealed to the BBC that it was the 4am starts that cemented her decision to leave.
Louise got emotional as she bid goodbye (BBC)Speaking after her exit, Louise told the BBC: "I feel I have made the right decision to go, but I'm also slightly nervous about life after the BBC. So many things have changed over the years. The way newsrooms are staffed, the advances in technology and of course the digital and online world. I have been so lucky to have a variety of jobs at the BBC it never occurred to me to leave but, after almost 40 years, I felt the time was right. The impact of the 4am starts on my home life was the biggest factor."
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Robert Thompson, the BBC's senior head of content production for the East and London, added: "Louise is a BBC East legend and has worked across so many of our radio and TV programmes across the region. Most recently she’s been waking up the region on TV during BBC Breakfast and I know that many of our viewers will really miss her, as will we. On behalf of us all, thank you."
Her departure comes several weeks after fellow Look East presenter Mike Liggins stepped down from his role.
He wrote online: "After 35 years, I've decided to leave the BBC. Time for a change. 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."
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