ITV has pre-empted an announcement by Ofcom about its regional news restructuring, due on Wednesday, by revealing the new presenting line-up for the new merged Lookaround bulletin covering the Tyne Tees and Border TV regions.
The programme, which relaunches next month, will be fronted by Tyne Tees sports presenter Ian Payne and Pam Royle, of North East Today.
Border’s Tim Backshall and John Bevir will become correspondents and Fiona Armstrong is to present features.
Helen Pearson will be the new face of breakfast bulletins shown during GMTV and the weather and environment presenter is Philippa Tomson, of North East Tonight.
The new programme will be launched in late February and will retain its 6pm and after News at Ten times. It will carry stories from Cumbria, the Borders, South West Scotland and the Isle of Man.
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog