EAST Lancashire journalist and broadcaster Tony Livesey has left his role as sports presenter on the BBC’s North West Tonight programme after seven years.

He is to take up a new role as current affairs editor at BBC One’s The One Show.

He blamed his departure from the regional programme on ‘budget cuts’ in an email to colleagues.

The BBC released a statement confirming his exit.

Editor of North West Tonight Michelle Mayman said: “Tony is a very talented broadcaster and I am sorry to see him go. I am pleased that he will be staying in touch with us at North West Tonight.

“He has done a brilliant job since he joined the team in 2006, bringing his good humour and warmth to proceedings.

It has been great fun working with him, and we wish him all the very best.”

Tony will start his role at The One Show in August.

The ex-Lancashire Telegraph reporter will also continue to host his weekend breakfast show on Radio 5 Live.