 Thomas, pictured with Konnie Huq, joined Blue Peter in 1999 |
Blue Peter presenter Simon Thomas is quitting the BBC One show after six years to pursue "fresh challenges". The vicar's son joined in January 1999 and by the time he leaves on 25 April he will have presented more than 550 editions of the children's show.
"It was a tough decision to make because Blue Peter is a place where you get to fulfil your dreams - and I've certainly done that," Thomas said.
He was hired to replace Richard Bacon, who was sacked for taking cocaine.
Thomas' on air highlights included climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, freefall parachuting with the RAF, competing in the indoor athletics championships and sparring with Olympic boxing hero Amir Khan.
 Thomas joined in activities including the show's 2003 Bikeathon |
In 2001 he presented the Queen with a gold Blue Peter badge when she visited the show's London studio. "Six-and-a-half years is a long time and I feel that now is the time to make way for someone new and to take on fresh challenges," he said.
Blue Peter editor Richard Marson said: "Simon will be a tough act to follow. He is a total professional with charm, authority and intelligence.
"He is one of the definitive presenters for his generation and Blue Peter viewers have shared in all his many triumphs and achievements. We wish him the very best for the future."
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