BBC Radio Cornwall’s Laurence Reed will be stepping down from his post after 32 years.
His last day will be Nov. 6.
The program, which runs 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., will be presented in the interim by James Dundon.
Announcing his departure live on air, Reed, said:
“There’s no easy way of saying this – but yes I am leaving the BBC in two weeks after 32 years.
“I started as a tea boy answering the phones, so I haven’t progressed that much actually!
“I don’t want people to feel sad because we’re handing on the baton to a really powerful team so the same kind of program will continue. We will challenge those decision makers, we will hold people to account.
“I’ve had a difficult 12 months. I’m not going to use sepsis as an excuse but it makes you revaluate life – and it’s probably left me with a little less energy than before.
“Let’s enjoy the next two weeks – it’s business as usual until then and it’ll be business as usual after that.”
During his 32-year tenure with the broadcaster, Reed has interviewed celebrities, prime ministers and thousands of Cornish locals.
Additionally, his monthly mental health phone-in recently won an award from the British Medical Journal.
Stephanie Marshall, head of BBC in the West and South West, said:
“Laurence is a talented presenter, diligent journalist and tireless champion of Cornwall, who has a unique ability to connect with listeners. He has chosen to step down from the phone-in show but will always be a friend of the station.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank those leaving BBC Radio Cornwall – your work has been invaluable in helping to make the station the success it is.”
