Peter Snow hangs up swingometer

Snow, 65, famous for his election night swingometers, has spent 25 years with the BBC's election teams.

"I have covered nine general elections and it's time for someone else to handle the swingometer," he said.

BBC director of news Helen Boaden said he had brought "tremendous presence, energy and engagement" to the corporation's election coverage.

"I shall be over 70 at the next general election and that, frankly, is a bit old to be dancing around in front of huge graphic displays"
Peter Snow

"The BBC, quite understandably, wants to freshen up its election team in this Parliament," Snow said.

"I shall be over 70 at the next general election and that, frankly, is a bit old to be dancing around in front of huge graphic displays."

Snow is currently working on a series about 20th century battles with son Dan for BBC Two.

He is also working on another BBC programme about the ownership of British land.

'Great partnership'

"It's a fine time to go - the BBC's coverage of this year's general election results was the most spectacular yet, and I was proud to be part of it," he said.

"I've had a wonderful innings with the BBC's election team and I'm hugely grateful for the opportunity they've given me over the past 25 years to try and explain election results with clarity and energy."

He said he would miss his "great partnership" with presenter David Dimbleby.

Ms Boaden added: "We are delighted that he will continue to charm, educate and entertain audiences on BBC television and radio and send him our warmest best wishes for his future plans."

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General Election 2005
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