Broadcasters unite to save Moira from the BBC's axe

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The broadcaster sparked controversy last week when it was announced that Ms Stuart - a multiawardwinning newsreader with over 20 years experience - had been removed from her regular slot on the politics programme Sunday AM.

The decision immediately prompted accusations of ageism and sexism, although Ms Stuart refused to comment on the row.

The 55 year-old, who was the first black woman to read the news, has been vaunted as a national treasure by her peers, many of whom demanded today that the corporation reinstate her.

Among the clamour of voices suggesting the BBC could be guilty of discriminating against older women is one of the broadcaster's " signature" voices, John Humphrys, who presents Radio 4's Today programme.

Mr Humphrys said: "There do seem to be remarkably few women with a few lines on their faces presenting TV news or current affairs compared with the wrinkled men."

His co-presenter, Sue MacGregor, said she found the BBC's decision "completely baffling" and added: "Moira is utterly professional, experienced, always authoritative, and a smart and attractive woman. None of her replacements ... can hold a candle to her. I hope that whoever decided to axe her will quickly recant."

The presenter of Sunday AM, Andrew Marr, today suggested that he would like to the BBC to change their mind over dropping Ms Stuart, who was made an OBE in 2001.

He said: "I have never worked with as charismatic, sharp and beautiful a colleague as Moira. I would fight any rival as her greatest fan, and I am sad to see her go."

Newsreaders outside the BBC have also joined what is fast becoming a fully-fledged "Save Moira" campaign.

Sir Trevor McDonald said: "I am disappointed ... I always thought she was a brilliant newsreader and I'm very sad that she's no longer doing it.

"The remarkable thing about Moira was that she looked better and better and better every time I saw her."

Jon Snow, Channel 4 News presenter, said: "I can't believe the BBC would want to give her up lightly."