the first episode from Pebble Mill studios in 1971), Kay Alexander (the programme's longest serving presenter), Alan Towers (see below), Alastair Yates, David Davies, Richard Uridge, Sue Beardsmore (left to become the public space coordinator at The Mailbox), Nina Nannar (moved to ITN in 2001), Stuart Linnell, Matt Smith, Julian Worricker, Ashley Blake (who was sacked in August 2009 after a criminal court case), Suzanne Virdee (who abruptly left in 2012 after an undisclosed row with management), Steve Clamp (moved to Central ITV in 2005) and Jackie Kabler who is now a regular presenter on QVC UK. Olympic Gold medalist Denise Lewis DBE also guest presented sport briefly during 2005, as did Rob Curling in 2002. Senior presenter Alan Towers' on-air departure in July 1997 (after 25 years) brought about one of the most controversial moments in the programme's history when he shared indignant views on BBC management, describing them as "pygmies in grey suits wearing blindfolds". References External links BBC Birmingham productions BBC Regional News shows 1964 British television series debuts 1960s British television series 1970s British television series 1980s British television series 1990s British television series 2000s British television series 2010s British television series 2020s British television series Television news in England