😮 END OF AN ERA — CAROL KIRKWOOD’S SHOCK EXIT FROM BBC BREAKFAST 💔

Carol Kirkwood has announced she is leaving the BBC after 25 years. The meteorologist, 63, joined the corporation in 1998 and has since become best known for presenting the weather on BBC Breakfast.

The presenter, who will leave the BBC in April, said she feels now is the “right” time to leave, adding that she will cherish the memories forever.

“This hasn’t been an easy decision to make, but it feels like the right moment to step away,” she said. “I’ll carry with me the most wonderful memories.”

After receiving her meteorological training at The Weather Channel, the Met Office and the BBC, Carol began working at the BBC Weather Centre in April 1998.

She made regular appearances on the BBC News channel and became the main weather presenter on BBC Breakfast in 2010.

The presenter said it had been an “absolute privilege” to bring viewers the weather forecasts every day and that she has “loved every minute” of her time at the BBC.

Carol continued: “My job is something I’ve never taken for granted and I’ve loved every minute. From early starts and all manner of forecasts, I’ve shared it with incredible colleagues at BBC Breakfast, BBC Weather and programmes across the BBC.

“I’d like to thank them for their support and friendship which has meant the world.”

She added: “To those watching and listening at home – thank you for all the kindness you have shown me over the years, being part of your mornings has been a joy.”

Carol’s work with BBC Breakfast took her to locations across the UK, where she presented the weather from high-profile events including Wimbledon, the Chelsea Flower Show, and royal occasions.

Jonathan Munro, the interim CEO of BBC News, praised Carol for making an “exceptional” contribution to the corporation, adding that she will be hugely missed by everyone.

He said: “From major national moments to the everyday forecasts that are such an important part of our audiences’ lives, she has set the gold standard for our accurate, valued journalism – always delivered with an appropriately sunny outlook.

“She will be greatly missed by teams across the BBC. We wish her all the best for the future.”