Robin Lustig has announced he is to step down from presenting Radio 4 nightly current affairs programme The World Tonight the end of this year after 23 years.
He said: "This has been an immensely difficult decision, but I think now is a good time for me to bow out and see if I'm still capable of doing anything else. It's been a huge privilege to be part of the Radio 4 and World Service families for more than two decades, but I hope now to have an opportunity to return to my first love: reporting from the field and getting mud on my boots."
Director of BBC news Helen Boaden said: “Over the past two decades, Robin has made an invaluable contribution to BBC journalism, especially in foreign affairs. His rich voice, deep knowledge and genuine curiosity have ensured that he is greatly loved by Radio 4 and World Service listeners. Personally I will miss him, as I’m sure the listeners will too. I would like to thank him and wish him all the best for the future.”
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Alistair Burnett, editor of The World Tonight, said: “Robin’s sharp intellect and journalistic rigour has been key to building The World Tonight’s reputation for in-depth analysis and making sense of what’s going on in the world for our listeners. He will be a very hard act to follow and will be missed, not only for his exemplary professionalism but also because he is a warm and considerate colleague."
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