Eamonn Holmes is to leave GMTV after more than ten years, it has been announced.

The presenter, who has anchored the breakfast show since its launch in 1993, will depart when his current three-year contract expires in April.

"What a privilege it has been to wake up the nation over the years with stories that affected all our lives," said Holmes. "I’ve covered every type of story imaginable at GMTV and it’s the right time to move on.

"I'll particularly miss my partnership with Fiona Phillips and I wish her and all the rest of the team the very best for the future."

GMTV said it would not be directly replacing Holmes; instead his hosting duties will be shared out between existing presenters Andrew Castle and Ben Shepherd.