Garry Richardson has announced that he’ll be standing down from presenting sports news on BBC Radio 4’s Today, in September.
The date is particularly significant for him, as it’ll mark exactly 50 years since he joined the BBC in 1974 as a junior researcher.
He’s presented the sports news on Today for 43 years, having first appeared on the show in 1981.
“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,” he said.
Initially starting out as a junior researcher at the BBC Written Archives Centre at Caversham, he moved to BBC Local Radio in 1977, including spells at BBC Radio Solent, Radio Oxford, Radio Merseyside and Radio Nottingham.
In 1980, he was invited to a three month trial at the BBC Radio Sport department at Broadcasting House in London, a year later he joined Today and also covered the royal wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer.
“Garry is a legendary presenter. So many of us have woken up to him bringing the latest sporting news for over four decades. 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, fifty years at the BBC is an incredible milestone,” added Tim Davie, BBC Director-General.
Steve Mawhinney, Head of Journalism, BBC Sport, said:
“For so many people, the sporting day does not start until they hear Garry’s voice bringing them the very latest news on the Today programme with his unique blend of insight, warmth and wit. Over the decades his passion for sport and for radio broadcasting has never faltered for a moment and he continues to set the standards that others aspire to. He will be hugely missed by his colleagues and audiences alike.”
