Kirsty Young is leaving her role as news anchor for Five, it has been announced.

The presenter, who has been one of the broadcaster's best know faces for 10 years, will leave in the autumn.

She has not announced any immediate plans other than to continue hosting Radio 4's Desert Island Discs. Fellow anchor John Suchet will remain in his role on the 5.30pm and 7pm news slots.

Young commented of the move: "I couldn't have worked anywhere better. I’ve been so happy at Five and I'll miss the incredibly talented people in the news room but after ten years I feel it's time for a change.

"Working in TV news has been a tremendously exciting and exhilarating experience and I will miss that day to day buzz but I feel now is the right time to focus on other areas."

Chris Shaw, Five's senior programme controller, brought Young to the channel in 1997. "Kirsty was the Face of Five News when it launched and she defined a new style of news presentation.

"Obviously we’re sorry she is leaving but understand that she wants a change and everyone at the channel wishes her the very best."

Young's informal presenting style - she perched on the desk in her first show - helped Five News to several awards in the channel's first year. In 1999 Young left for ITV News before returning in 2002.