Shires and Barnes to step down from ITV’s Calendar

TWO OF the longest-serving presenters on ITV’s Calendar are to leave next week after more than 30 years of service.

John Shires and Gaynor Barnes have confirmed they are to step down from their roles and will be retiring.

Mr Shires was Richard Whiteley’s former co-anchor and joined Yorkshire Television in 1989.

He covered the Hillsborough disaster and has also done significant sports reporting alongside news broadcasting, including following Leeds United during their spell in the Champions League and covering the Tour de France Grand Depart, as well as hosting coverage of the London Olympics in 2012.

Ms Barnes arrived in 1991 and has worked on many regional shows, including a series that followed the creation of The Deep in Hull and the 1990s programme It’s a Vet’s Life.

She also presents the 6pm news programme and some Good Morning Britain bulletins.

Mr Shires said: “After 32 years at Calendar, it hasn’t been an easy decision to retire. I’ll miss the people I work with and the buzz of a live news programme.

“I can look back on so many stories and momentous events covered, so many friendships made and so many memories, most of them happy.

“However, it’s time to move on to the next chapter and because I’ve always tried to keep it a secret, before I go I’ll reveal which football club I really support!”

Ms Barnes added: “Making the decision to leave Calendar hasn’t been an easy one. Bringing the news to viewers’ homes for nearly three decades has been a privilege and a pleasure.

“My career with the company has certainly surpassed all my expectations. I will, without doubt, miss work and all the wonderful colleagues and friends I’ve made over the years.

“However, with a rather special birthday looming, I’ve decided this is now the right time for me to take my gap year.”