BBC News presenters in fresh blow as three stars miss out on roles after being forced to reapply for jobs AGAIN

BBC NEWS presenters have received a fresh blow after three stars miss out on permanent on air roles.

The broadcaster has announced another shake-up to its anchor lineup for the channel.

In a cost-cutting measure Beeb bosses last year laid off five presenters as it merged its two news channels.

They were Martine Croxall, Geeta Guru-Murthy, Karin Giannone, Kasia Madera and Annita McVeigh.

However, in a U-turn two of the women will return to the studio imminently.

BBC News have confirmed Annita McVeigh and Geeta Guru-Murthy have been reinstated and promoted to chief presenting roles.

Ben Brown, who is a regular face on the channel, has also been given the esteemed role.

Paul Royall, editor of the channel, said: "Annita, Ben and Geeta’s knowledge, experience, and presenting talent make them valuable additions to the team, bringing trusted BBC News to more than 100m viewers around the world on the UK’s most-watched news channel."

The news means Martine, Karin and Kasia remain in limbo and out of the studio.

The Times previously reported that all women will be offered permanent roles to avoid possible legal action.

An insider said: “They’re all litigious and the National Union of Journalists will back them.

"Plus, the BBC is short of presenters so there are no grounds to make them redundant. And they’re all capable of doing the role.

"A reverse ferret is definitely the best plan.”

A spokesperson for BBC News previously declined to comment on 'HR issues' when contacted by The Sun.

Martine Croxall recently teased to fans she would be back on air in 2024.

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