Norman MacLeod, one of the most recognisable faces in Scottish broadcasting, is set to leave STV after almost four decades bringing news stories to audiences across the north of Scotland. The respected journalist and presenter will host his final STV News at Six programme on Friday July 10, marking the end of a remarkable career with the broadcaster.
Career Highlights and Major Stories
Norman joined Grampian Television in the 1980s as a trainee journalist and went on to become one of STV's most experienced and trusted presenters, serving as a senior member of the newsroom for more than two decades. Throughout his career, Norman has covered some of the biggest stories to affect Scotland and beyond. Among the defining moments was his reporting on the Piper Alpha disaster, which he revisited 30 years later in a special programme from the Memorial Rose Garden in Aberdeen.
The news anchor also reported on the devastating storms that hit South Uist in 2005 and in more recent years, presented live coverage of the Tall Ships Race from Aberdeen Harbour. Away from major news events, Norman's career has been filled with memorable interviews and distinctive moments, including sampling traditional whale meat in the Faroe Islands alongside the men’s national football team and speaking to leading entertainment figures such as Margarita Pracatan and Barry Manilow.
Personal Reflections and Tribute
A Gaelic speaker originally from Scalpay in Harris in the Outer Hebrides, Norman has reported from across Europe and has also presented programmes for ITN, Channel 4 and the History Channel. Reflecting on his time at STV, Norman said: "It’s been a privilege to bring the news to viewers across the north of Scotland for almost 40 years. I’ve had an incredible career at STV, working alongside some truly wonderful colleagues who have made it so special. I’ll miss the team enormously, but the time feels right to embark on a new adventure."
He added: "As a presenter, you are welcomed into people’s homes each evening, and earning their trust is a responsibility I have never taken lightly. It’s been an honour to serve our audience in this way for the past four decades."
STV Managing Director's Praise
Bobby Hain, Managing Director of Audience at STV, paid tribute to Norman's contribution to Scottish journalism, describing him as "a legend of STV News". He said: "An outstanding journalist and presenter, Norman is truly a legend of STV News. He has delivered trusted news to audiences across the north of Scotland with authority and grace for almost 40 years. His passion for regional public service broadcasting and his unwavering commitment to his craft are exceptional. We thank him for his immense contribution and for being such a valued member of our team, and we wish him every success for the future."
