Upset Question of Sport host Sue Barker is in shock after losing her "dream job" on the hit BBC quiz show in a move that has been slammed by loyal viewers.
Fans of the long-running series were left in shock on Sunday when it was revealed that former tennis player Sue had left the show and she has now spoken out to insist it wasn't her decision to go.
In a statement she said: "I love the show so much they would have to remove me, it would have been tough for me to walk away.
I’ve absolutely loved my 24 years fronting A Question Of Sport, it’s been my dream job.
“But I understand the BBC want to take the show in a new direction and I’m sad to say goodbye."
Sue isn't the only one dumped from the show that she has hosted for the past 24 years after succeeding David Coleman. Team captains cricket hero Phil Tufnell and rugby star Matt Dawson are also being replaced.
Addressing the news on Twitter, 'Tuffers' wrote: "13 yrs @QuestionofSport has been a great part of life… going to miss it hugely… thanks so much for all the lovely messages!!”
Hinting at his shock and upset over the cull, Matt posted: "Thanks for all the lovely messages.
“I’m not sure how to respond so I’ll have a think. Needless to say I will miss @QuestionofSport immensely."
Confirming the trio's departure, the BBC released a statement reading: "We would like to thank Sue for her enormous contribution as the show's longest-reigning host over the last 24 years, and Matt and Phil for their excellent team captaincy.
""Together they have ensured A Question of Sport remains a firm favourite with the BBC One audience."
Fans have slammed the BBC's decision. One took to Twitter to plead: "To the BBC - Please save @QuestionofSport in its current format - Sue Barker is the heart of the programme alongside the brilliant @philtufnell and @matt9dawson. A programme adored by older and younger generations - Just as it is!"
Another tweeted: "Question of Sport is still brilliant, it's not broken so why try to fix it ? When that time eventually comes, scrap it altogether because these three are a hard act to follow. Have some respect BBC," and a third blasted: "Cannot believe that Sue Barker is being replaced, with all her knowledge. Also Matt and Phil leaving. I have watched this programme from the beginning."
