BBC weather presenter Abbie Dewhurst has announced her departure from the corporation.
Marking her “eight-year weather anniversary”, Abbie shared the news on Instagram, writing: “The only thing crazier than landing your dream job is handing your notice in for it… A long, emotional caption so buckle up.”
She reminisced about her first day at BBC Yorkshire, saying: “Eight years ago today I walked into BBC Yorkshire as a staff weather presenter for the first time and, in spite of the initial 2.30am alarms, have been living my actual dream in this amazing corporation ever since.”
However, she acknowledged that “all good things must come to an end and the end is in sight (still a couple of weeks off so plenty more reminiscent spam to come).”
In her heartfelt goodbye message, she expressed her gratitude: “There aren’t enough thank yous in the world to everyone who has made this journey so marvellous and it really has been a journey.”, reports the Mirror.
Reflecting on her early days, she said: “I walked into that first day as an excited 22 year old (what a baby I was) and have spent eight glorious years waking up before the sun, keeping you company on your morning routines, helping you prep for the day, hopefully providing a touch of entertainment but most importantly becoming someone you trust and can rely on (even if the weather isn’t an exact science!).
Abbie continued: “I have met some wonderful people, a handful of which will become lifelong friends. Thank you for your patience in the early days, your company at hours most people only see when catching a flight and your constant encouragement and unwavering belief in my somewhat unhinged ideas and dreams.”
The weather presenter added: “We’ve been through a global pandemic, royal events both good and bad, extreme heat, devastating floods, General Elections, I’ve been thrown down a hill in a soap box in Bradford, hosted a show on national radio, reported from Wimbledon, covered stories about pigs and viral social media videos and most memorably, took part in a Children in Need tandem bike ride with Peter Levy.”
Abbie’s post went on to say: “I’ll share more in the next few weeks around the future but felt it apt on my eight-year weather anniversary to take a look back and reminisce on what really has been a dream come true. Thank you for welcoming me onto your screens, into your radios and onto your phones. It’s been a privilege that’s not lost on me. The future is looking bright.”
Her followers were quick to react, with one commenting: “You’ll be really missed. Thank you for brightening up our evenings, even when the weather was lousy. We’ll miss your lovely smile.” Another person responded: “You will be missed Abbie, you’re the only one I trust to get the forecast right.”
Meanwhile, anotherl follower added: “Sorry to see you go. I’ve watched you for many years and you will be sorely missed. Good luck in whatever you do next.”