Tony Livesey has departed BBC Radio 5 Live after 16 years, with his exit confirmed in a note circulated to colleagues. The move follows his decision in June to step away from presenting for a "short time" after questions were raised about his previous work as editor-in-chief of newspapers owned by David Sullivan.
The 62-year-old broadcaster had been away from his show for nearly two months when the announcement was made. A Panorama investigation had prompted the BBC and The Times to report allegations involving Sullivan and Livesey.
Colleagues told of departure
Radio 5 Live controller Heidi Dawson informed staff that Livesey had chosen to leave his presenting role. She highlighted his 16-year tenure, noting he was "the first voice for us on air as we launched from our new home in Salford" and had been "at the heart of our coverage of every major news and sporting event for a decade and a half."
Dawson added: "Tony has asked me to pass on his heartfelt thanks to the brilliant colleagues at 5 Live who he has had the pleasure of working with over the years. I know many of you have also really enjoyed working with Tony, and we wish him well for all his future endeavours."
Career highlights
During his time at the station, Livesey covered major sporting events including the London and Paris Olympics and Wimbledon. He also reported from the Falkland Islands, RAF Akrotiri and covered Brexit for 5 Live.
Background to exit
In June, the BBC and The Times reported accounts from seven women who claimed Sullivan engaged in sexually exploitative and predatory behaviour. Sullivan, 77, subsequently quit as chairman of the East London football club to contest what he described as "false allegations" about his conduct.
The allegations date back to the 1980s and 1990s, when Sullivan owned the Daily Sport and Sunday Sport tabloids. The investigation also raised questions for Livesey, who edited those papers, with one alleged victim stating he had arranged a meeting between her and Sullivan.
Livesey told The Times he had "no recollection" of introducing the young woman to Sullivan and said it was "not part" of his job to do so.
