Sandy Smith has been named as the new editor of the BBC's flagship current affairs programme Panorama.

Smith has worked at the corporation since 1988, most recently as the editor of Watchdog.

"I am delighted to take over at Panorama which despite its long and illustrious career still has its best years ahead of it," said Smith. "I have enjoyed my time at Watchdog and will be very sad to part company with such a talented, young team but I am very much looking forward to the challenge ahead."

Smith replaces Mike Robinson who announced his departure from the BBC in March.