Sir Trevor McDonald quits 'News at Ten'

Sir Trevor McDonald will step down from his presenting role on ITV1's flagship news bulletin News at Ten in late November.

Sir Trevor, who will lead ITV's coverage of the American election on November 4, returned to the bulletin when it was revived in January; however, it was reported in May that he was in talks to leave the programme.

"I've tremendously enjoyed the opportunity to help re-establish News at Ten over the last year and to work alongside Julie Etchingham, who is a fantastically talented journalist, but I've made no secret of the fact that I cannot be in the presenter's chair forever. Anchoring ITV News's live coverage of a hugely exciting and historic US election seems the opportune moment to leave on a high."

Mark Austin will succeed Sir Trevor as co-presenter alongside Julie Etchingham. He will continue to present the ITV Evening News.

"I am delighted to be joining News at Ten permanently and look forward to working with Julie Etchingham who is a great journalist, and popular presenter," said Austin. "It is also an honour to follow in the footsteps of Sir Trevor McDonald."

Sir Trevor will continue to present Tonight and other ITV1 programmes including "high profile documentary projects currently in development".