Good Morning Britain marked the end of an era on Christmas Eve as veteran ITV news reporter Richard Gaisford signed off for the final time. The 53-year-old chief correspondent, who joined ITV 26 years ago, delivered an emotional farewell during the breakfast show.
Gaisford, who reported from natural disasters, war zones, and terror attacks, as well as covering the Madeleine McCann case, said: 'It has been a privilege. I have had the best job in television news, and I’ve worked with the most incredible people. I will miss all of you immensely and wish you the best of luck with what happens next year.' He added: 'I’m out there looking for some new adventures.'
Presenter Charlotte Hawkins praised him as an 'exceptional journalist', while colleague Richard Balls thanked him for 'all of that public broadcasting service… finding truth and objectivity and telling all of us what is really going on.' Balls also admitted to learning a lot from Gaisford, describing himself as the 'newbie on the block'.
Gaisford announced his departure in October. On X, he wrote: 'Some personal news. Counting down to the end of an era.' In a recorded Instagram message, he thanked his wife for her 'incredible support' and viewers for watching 'for more than a quarter of a century'. He concluded: 'I will miss speaking with you in the mornings and hope to see you on the television sometime soon.'
Colleagues paid tribute, with Susanna Reid calling him 'calm, authoritative, knowledgeable and fearless'. Marverine Cole said: 'Gonna miss you, Richard. It’s been an honour to know you and work with you.' Gaisford is the second GMB star to leave this month, following presenter Sally Biddulph’s departure on December 17 after 17 years.
