Garry Richardson has announced he will be leaving his BBC Radio Four Today programme, with his last day on September 9 marking 50 years to the day that he joined the BBC in 1974.
He began as a junior researcher before moving on to local radio and becoming one of the most beloved presenters on the channel.
As well as working on the Today programme, Richardson was also the host of the agenda-setting Sportsweek which aired Sunday mornings on BBC Radio 5 Live for 20 years, until its final edition in September 2019.
Releasing a statement about his departure, he said: “I have had the most wonderful time working for the BBC alongside my heroes from sport and showbusiness.
“I’ll still be broadcasting from time to time, the only difference will be I won’t be setting my alarm for 2:45am and that’s a lovely thought.”
Tim Davie, the BBC’s director-general, described Richardson as “legendary” and added: “So many of us have woken up to him bringing the latest sporting news for over four decades.
Garry released a statement of the "wonderful" time on the show
BBC
“He has brought wisdom, insight and a smile to every broadcast. On behalf of all of us, I’d like to thank Garry for everything he has done, 50 years at the BBC is an incredible milestone.”
Owenna Griffiths, Editor of Today, noted: “Garry quickly became a familiar part of my morning when I first started listening to Today at university.
“It’s been a privilege to work with him over the years and, along with many, many other Today listeners, I will miss him enormously.”
Fans of Richardson were left upset over the news and took to their X accounts to express their sadness and wish him luck in his future.
Garry noted that he would still be broadcasting from time to time
GETTY
One noted: “Garry Richardson has combined humour and humility on the radio my whole life. I can’t believe he’s going. What an institution.”
“[An] Amazing warm and intelligent broadcaster and far more than sport, hope we hear more from his other dimensions in future,” another said.
“Such a shame, losing a right legend there,” a third penned before another commented: “My mornings won’t be the same without you! Good luck on your next venture.”
A fifth fan expressed: “I have listened to Garry throughout my life and admire all the work he has done over the years! I wish you all the best and can’t wait to see what you do next.” (sic)
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Garry announced his departure from BBC Radio Four
BBC
Richardson’s news comes just two days after it was confirmed Jonathan Agnew would stand down as the corporation’s chief cricket correspondent at the end of summer.
Agnew will continue to commentate on the BBC’s Test Match Special broadcasts for four more years.