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A BBC star paid tribute to a colleague as they quit the broadcaster after a whopping 40 years.

Look North presenter Phillip Norton shared a fond farewell as a longtime co-worker bowed out of the BBC.

Headshot of Phillip Norton.
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BBC star Phillip Norton shared a tribute to a departing colleagueCredit: Twitter / @phillipnorton
BBC news director retiring after 40 years.
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Longtime Look North director Nigel Clarke is retiringCredit: Twitter / @phillipnorton
Selfie of a man in Prague, wearing a white polo shirt, in front of a river and historical buildings.
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Phillip described Nigel's departure as the "end of an era"Credit: Twitter / @phillipnorton

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, he wrote: "End of an era tonight- this is our lovely director Nigel Clarke, who after 40 years and directing thousands of @looknorthBBC bulletins, is pressing the buttons one last time before he retires.

"Thanks for everything Nigel- and sorry you’ve got me for your final show."

The presenter also shared a photo of Nigel to accompany his post.

One of Phillip's followers commented: "The back bone of the profession. Unsung heroes."

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Another added: "All the very best to you."

Nigel's retirement follows major staff changes at the Beeb over the last few months.

Last month, foreign correspondent Jenny Hill announced her exit after 24 years.

She wrote on X: "Personal update: I’m leaving the BBC today after 24 years. What a privilege it’s been to travel the world and tell people’s stories.

"Thanks to the many lovely colleagues whose talent, courage and friendship have made it such a pleasure."

BBC News analysis editor Ros Atkins said: "We're going to miss you, Jenny. Best of luck."

BBC News presenter reveals her last shift is today ‘after five fantastic years’ ahead big move

Chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet wrote: "Such a distinctive broadcaster and kind colleague. So sorry to see you go Jenny."

Meanwhile, Look North presenter Hannah Gray confirmed her exit from the programme in November 2024.

Taking to her X account, the TV journalist shared a snap of herself in the BBC Look North studio ahead of her final Breakfast shift.

Hannah said: "LAST breakfast shift at BBC Look North!

"After a fantastic 5 years here in Yorkshire, we’re moving back to London in early December.

"Will very much miss my amazing friends, colleagues and beautiful countryside here but we will be moving closer to family & really looking forward to catching up with old colleagues & friends in the capital."

Headshot of Phillip Norton.
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Phillip is a video journalist for BBC Look NorthCredit: Twitter / @phillipnorton
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