One of the founding members of Radio Norfolk is to retire after nearly 50 years at the BBC.

Rob Bonnet has announced he will hang up his mic this summer after starting his career in 1975 before moving to Radio Norfolk in 1980 - the year it was launched. 

He has since reported on major events around the world and interviewed some of the biggest sporting figures.

The 71-year-old moved to Radio 1 in 1982, returning to Norfolk for his first television presenting role in 1985.

He is now a familiar face and voice not only in Norfolk but across the globe, having covered major sporting events such as football and rugby world cups and the Barcelona Olympics.

“I shall look back with great affection for my time at the BBC which has allowed me to cover many important stories, meet countless outstanding sportsmen and women, form many friendships and visit numerous events all over the world," he said.

"I have been proud to work for the world’s leading public service broadcaster and on Today, where I have been very happy in an office which has a special camaraderie as well as being the most influential and skilfully produced and presented radio news programme on the BBC.”

Mr Bonnet has presented the sport on BBC Radio 4’s Today since 2007 and will retire after the Olympic Games this summer.

Tim Davie, BBC director general, added: “Rob has been one of the voices of sport on the BBC for decades."

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"He has been a mainstay for our audiences and it is fitting that he will finish with this year’s Olympic Games and another wonderful summer of sport.

“Rob is a presenter and broadcaster held in the highest regard across the BBC and the sporting world.

"We wish him all the best for his retirement and for the future.”