Sally Nugent replaces Louise Minchin on BBC Breakfast

Sally Nugent will replace Louise Minchin as co-host of BBC Breakfast, the company announced.

He will sit next to Dan Walker from Monday to Wednesday, having replaced Minchin after his departure in mid-September.

Nugent said she was “absolutely thrilled” to be nominated, adding, “It is an honor to take the reins of Louise.”

Nugent has worked as the show’s sports presenter for the past decade.

Walker tweeted that he was “so happy” for her. “She is a brilliant presenter, highly regarded by the team, an excellent journalist and a great friend,” he wrote.

Born in Birkenhead, Nugent, 50, began her career at BBC Radio Merseyside and previously worked on BBC North West Tonight and the BBC News Channel.

He said: “I am absolutely thrilled to become the new BBC Breakfast host and bring the latest news, top entertainment guests and stories that matter every week to the nation.”

Nugent won the scoop of the year award at the 2021 Royal Television Society Journalism Awards for his interview with footballer Marcus Rashford about his campaign to end child food poverty.

His documentaries on Rashford and former rugby league player Rob Burrow’s experiences with motor neuron disease were both nominated for this year’s National Television Awards.

Richard Frediani, editor of BBC Breakfast, said: “Sally has an impressive track record as an award-winning television journalist and has secured a number of high-profile exclusive interviews in recent years.

“We are delighted that you are taking your new permanent place in the studio with Dan, Charlie and Naga.”

Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt will continue to present the program in the latter part of the week.

When she unveiled her latest edition of Breakfast last month, Minchin thanked viewers for making her “feel welcome in your home and in your hearts”.