After an extraordinary 36-year tenure, renowned presenter Lucy Meacock is set to exit ITV’s flagship news programme, Granada Reports. Her decision comes after a period filled with both highs and lows, including recent tragic events in Southport.
However, despite the emotional weight of her final broadcasts, Meacock took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her gratitude and reflect on her time with the programme. With her departure, viewers are saying goodbye to a broadcasting legend who has left an indelible mark.
Lucy Meacock’s Legacy at Granada Reports
Lucy Meacock, a well-respected presenter at ITV’s flagship news programme Granada Reports, has announced her departure after an impressive 36-year career. In a heartfelt message on X (previously Twitter), Meacock reflected on her time with the programme, calling it a ‘privilege’ and expressing her sadness over recent tragic events in Southport.
A Career Full of Memorable Moments
Meacock’s career began at Tyne Tees TV, where she covered the Miners’ strike in 1984. Her journey with Granada Television was marked by her work on programmes such as UpFront, The Late Debate, and This Morning. One of the highlights of her career was covering major stories like the Hillsborough disaster in 1989.
Tributes to Colleagues
Throughout her career, Meacock has had the opportunity to work with remarkable individuals. She has paid tribute to ex-colleagues like Tony Wilson and Tony Morris, describing Wilson as a ‘music maestro’ and Morris as a cheerful presence even during grim times. In a reflection on Morris’s passing, Meacock noted, ‘Grieving for a special colleague has been tough for all of us at Granada Reports.’
A Difficult Decision
In mid-July, Meacock revealed her ‘difficult decision’ to leave Granada Reports. She expressed deep gratitude for the thoughtfulness of viewers during challenging times, especially when the team lost Tony Wilson and Tony Morris. ‘What a joy it was to work with them both,’ she said. ‘I have certainly been lucky to work with the best of the best.’
Future Endeavours
Despite bidding farewell to Granada Reports, Meacock has assured her followers that she is not stepping away from public life entirely. She stated on X that she will be involved in projects that promote the best interests of the North West. ‘I am not done yet!’ she exclaimed.
Final Episode
Lucy Meacock’s final episode for Granada Reports is set to air at 6pm tonight on ITV. This episode marks the end of an era for the programme and its viewers, who have come to admire Meacock for her dedication and professionalism over the years.
In conclusion, Lucy Meacock leaves behind an unparalleled legacy at Granada Reports that spans 36 remarkable years. Her commitment, warmth, and professionalism have made a lasting impact on her colleagues and viewers alike.
Although she is stepping away from the presenter role, Meacock’s influence will continue through her future projects aimed at promoting the best interests of the North West. As she closes this chapter, the broadcasting world bids farewell to a true trailblazer.