BBC Look East presenter Susie Fowler-Watt will leave the corporation after 35 years, with her final broadcast scheduled for December 18 as she focuses on a new career as a psychotherapist.
The 56-year-old, one of the BBC's longest-serving presenters, announced her departure in a video shared on social media, where she reflected on her long tenure presenting the regional programme.
Career Change and Final Broadcast
In the video, Susie said: "I've been sitting on this sofa, or a version of it, for nearly 30 years now presenting the programme. I've been at the BBC for 35, but I have some news."
She explained that she had trained as a psychotherapist at the age of 50, in 2020, and now wishes to pursue that professional path. She added: "Oh my goodness, what a joy this job has been. What a privilege it has been, I have loved it. I have worked with such wonderful people and met so many wonderful people in my career."
"So I want to say thank you all for watching, I will be here for another eight weeks or so, and I will say a proper goodbye when I go just before Christmas."
Tributes From Viewers
Messages of support poured in, with one viewer writing: "Will be sorry to see you go Susie. I will miss your chats with @RobPerroneShow too - I got quite emotional when you said hello to him when he came back after his surgery."
Another remarked: "So sad to read this across the media today. You are such a great presenter, a true professional journalist and broadcaster. We will miss you."
A third added: "So sorry to see you go Susie but you must be keen to put your psychotherapist training to work. Will be watching on the 18th!"
A Distinguished Broadcasting Career
Susie began her broadcasting career at BBC Radio Surrey in 1991, progressing through various reporting and presenting positions. She subsequently joined the BBC political unit in Westminster before becoming a political correspondent for BBC East, and has served as a lead presenter for BBC Look East for more than 30 years.
Reflecting on her departure, she told the BBC: "I have absolutely loved the job, but I'm now in a new chapter of life, and keen to focus my energy on my therapy work."
"Presenting the BBC's 18:30 regional news programme has been such a privilege, as you're very much part of your community and are invited into hundreds of thousands of homes every evening."
"I have grown up alongside our Look East audience, having become a lead presenter in my 20s. For me, it's about being a voice for our viewers and seeking answers on their behalf."
