Bruce Forsyth Quitting Strictly Come Dancing

After more than 10 years of hosting Strictly Come Dancing, Sir Bruce Forsyth has announced that he is preparing to quit the show.

The veteran presenter will step down from hosting duties for the live shows but will still be on hand for the Strictly Christmas Special, the Strictly Children in Need Special and other one-off specials.

"I believe it is now the right time to step down from the rigours of presenting the Strictly live shows," he said.

"I am very proud of what the show has achieved and confident it will entertain the nation for many years to come."

"In addition, I am looking forward to the specials planned with the BBC as well as some live theatre shows, so before anyone asks... I am not retiring quite yet!"

The 86-year-old star, who rose to fame in the 1950s series Sunday Night at the London Palladium, is the longest serving male entertainer in television history.

He has presented shows including The Generation Game, Play Your Cards Right, The Price Is Right and You Bet! He joined the popular dancing competition as co-presenter in 2004.

"Sir Bruce Forsyth is one of the great showbiz legends of our time and Strictly's success is due in vast amounts to him," said BBC 1 controller Charlotte Moore.

"I am so pleased he will continue to be part of the Strictly family and promise viewers that we haven't seen the last of him on BBC One."