Posted on 19th Oct
BBC East Midlands Today presenter Dominic Heale has decided to leave the regional news programme after two decades.
The presenter of the BBC One bulletins and shows will sign off on Friday, October 23.
Dominic began broadcasting in 1984 and joined BBC East Midlands Today in 2000.
Following his decision to leave, his co-presenter, Anne Davies, will continue as lead presenter.
Dominic said: “It’s been a joy and a privilege to work for BBC East Midlands Today. I owe so much to the team behind the programme – they’re the best in the business and I shall miss them enormously.
“I’ll also miss my daily live half hour with Anne who has been a great friend and a huge support. And, of course, I’ll miss meeting and interviewing the people of the East Midlands who have been endlessly fascinating – and unfailingly kind to me.
“No one moment stands out; it’s just been the best 20 years I could have hoped for.
“I’m not giving up broadcasting entirely and hope to explore new opportunities away from the big red sofa. “
Dominic began his career on Plymouth Sound Radio in 1984. He moved to Television South-West in 1989, Central News (East) in Nottingham in 1993 and joined East Midlands Today in 2000.
Anne was among those who praised Dominic for a long and distinguished BBC career.
She said: “What can I say? It feels as though I’m losing my right arm, my wingman, my friend, my co-conspirator, the man I’ve spent more time with than any husband, who makes me laugh and has my back when the going gets tough.
“Dominic has been a part of our fabulous programme forever and knowing he will no longer be there makes these strange times even stranger.
“Whatever he does next you can rest assured will be as thoughtful, intelligent and funny as he always is.”
Declan Wilson, head of TV and Online for BBC England, said: “Over the past 20 years Dominic has become a fixture of East Midlands life.
“He is not only a hugely talented broadcaster but also a gifted journalist.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Dominic for all he has done for the BBC.”
