Iconic ITV newsreader Alistair Stewart retires after almost 50 years

ok.co.uk:

Iconic newsreader Alistair Stewart has announced his retirement after almost 50 years of broadcasting. In a statement, the 70 year old journalist described the job as "the best in the world" but cited the commute from Hampshire to London and wanting to spend time with his family as his reasons for stepping down.

Alistair has been one of the most prominent ITV news reporters over the last five decades, and more recently, fronted his own show, named Alistair Stewart and Friends for GB News, for which he recently filmed his last episode.

It's been confirmed by GB News that Alistair will return as an occasional contributor and commentator on major news events though, including King Charles' Coronation in May.

In a statement announcing his retirement, Alistair, who is Britain’s longest-serving newsreader with 45 years at the helm, said: "I’m nearly 71 and I still get the most tremendous lift from live television – it’s the best job in the world. "However, the rigours of preparing for two live interview shows a week, and commuting from Hampshire to London for them, are considerable." The father of four continued: "I want to reduce my commitment while I’m still ahead as an old broadcaster, rather than an ancient one. "Thankfully the timing is mine; I just want to spend more of it with my family, my horses, and the charities that have meant so much to me over the years. "It’s been a privilege to complete my regular broadcasting career with a sparky start-up like GB News that’s challenging the traditional moulds I’ve known for so long. "It’s kept me on my toes, taught me new tricks, but above all GB News has liberated me. "I’ve had the freedom to cover the stories I’m passionate about, interview the people I want, and offer my.