BBC presenter Susie Fowler-Watt has announced she is leaving the broadcaster after 35 years to pursue a new career as a psychotherapist. She has presented BBC Look East for nearly three decades and is one of the BBC's longest-serving news presenters.
In a video message announcing her departure, Fowler-Watt 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, I am leaving the BBC because I want to concentrate on my new career as a psychotherapist."
A New Chapter After Decades on Air
Fowler-Watt explained that she trained as a psychotherapist when she was 50, six years ago, and is now keen to invest in that new chapter of her life. Reflecting on her broadcasting career, she said: "But oh my goodness, what a joy this job has been, what a privilege it has been. I have loved it."
She added: "I have worked with such wonderful people and met so many wonderful people in my career. I want to say thank-you all for watching and I will be here for another eight weeks or so, and I will say a proper goodbye when I go just before Christmas."
A Career Spanning Politics and Major Stories
Fowler-Watt began her BBC career in 1991 at BBC Radio Surrey before moving through a series of reporting, producing and presenting roles in local radio. She later joined the BBC political unit at Westminster, working on national TV programmes, and was a political correspondent for BBC East at a time when the prime minister and many of his cabinet were MPs in the region.
During her career, she interviewed eight prime ministers and covered major UK stories, including the Soham murders, the trial of serial killer Steve Wright, the Covid pandemic and the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Tribute from BBC Local Leadership
Robert Thompson, director of production for BBC Local, said: "Susie has made an outstanding contribution to the BBC and audiences across the east of England. A trusted voice through both good times and challenging moments, she has championed the region and its communities with warmth, integrity, and professionalism."
He added: "We thank her for her dedication and lasting impact, she leaves us with our warmest of wishes and huge thanks." Her last day on air will be Friday December 18.
