John MacKay, who is known as ‘Scotland’s Anchorman’, has announced he will leave STV after more than 30 years at the company.

The veteran broadcaster, one of the best-known journalists in the country, will leave in March 2026 in order to pursue his writing career.

MacKay joined STV in 1994 as a reporter on its evening news programme and was promoted to co-anchor in 1998.

Mr MacKay said he would focus on his writing career following the success of his novel The Road Dance, which was adapted into a film. He said a sequel is set for production next year.

His departure comes as STV looks to cut 60 jobs and scrap its dedicated programme in the north of Scotland. It is understood about half of the total will be met voluntarily.

The announcement has been met with anger across the political s

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