Zoe Salmon Quits Blue Peter

Children's TV presenter Zoe Salmon has announced that she is quitting the BBC show Blue Peter.

The 28-year-old is leaving the children's show after three-and-a-half years. Salmon, a former Miss Northern Ireland, has signed up to present a new gameshow on children's channel CBBC.

The law graduate became Blue Peter's 30th presenter when she made her debut on the 2004 Christmas show. She sparked controversy soon afterwards when she suggested on air that the Red Hand of Ulster would make a good symbol for an airline in a logo competition.

The BBC said that the the comments were not intended to be provocative or promote sectarianism but apologised for "any upset or concern".

Salmon was the first female Blue Peter presenter to run the London Marathon, has raced in a Formula One car, walked on fire, and trekked to the top of the UK's highest peaks while on the show.

Salmon said that she will always "treasure" her Blue Peter Badge.

She said: "I've loved my time on Blue Peter and I've had experiences that I never dreamed I could have. It has taken me to places I never thought I would see, and gave me the opportunity to do things I never thought I could do.

"Life on Blue Peter has been one continuous highlight. It's been an incredible privilege and honour to have been part of the fantastic team and I will always treasure my Blue Peter Badge and memories."

Blue Peter editor Tim Levell said: "Zoe has been a fantastic presenter. She has thrown herself into the challenges we have given her with 110% dedication. And children absolutely love her."

Salmon's last day on the show will be on June 25, at the end of the current series, when Gethin Jones also leaves.

Via ukpress