Bill Oddie quits BBC 'Springwatch'

Bill Oddie has quit wildlife programme Springwatch.

The ornithologist has retired from the BBC series after four years presenting alongside Kate Humble.

"I'm really going to miss working with Kate and the team but after an amazing four years of really intense work it feels like the right time to take a breather and recharge my batteries," he said.

An hour-long special will be broadcast at the start of the next series with highlights of Oddie's time on the show.

The BBC confirmed that Oddie will stay with the corporation and the door has been left open for him to return for future series.

"Bill's inimitable style, in depth expertise and unflinching dedication have helped establish Springwatch and Autumnwatch as two of the nation's favourite natural history programmes," BBC Natural History head Neil Nightingale said.

"Although he's stepping out of the picture for this series he remains an important member of the Springwatch family."

Oddie previously complained about "hurtful" public criticism of his performance on the the show.