McCririck blames ‘ageism’ as he’s put out to grass

Published on 27/10/2012 01:38

THE long-serving presenter of Channel 4’s racing programmes has blasted TV ageism and said he was devastated after being sacked as a result of “audience research”.

John McCririck, 72, known for his bling, sideburns and deerstalker, was dropped as the station unveiled its new presenting team to join Clare Balding.

McCririck – who won over a whole new audience during his appearance on the reality show Celebrity Big Brother – accused the station of ditching older performers.

He said: “It is so sad that Channel 4 boss Jay Hunt and production chief Carl Hicks, both long-time BBC executives, have again gone down their well-worn path of ageism. Among the 13 slated to be on screen, only Jimbo McGrath is over 50.”

A Channel 4 spokeswoman said: “The presenting team includes a range of experienced broadcasters and racing experts and reflects our desire to give a new approach to covering horse racing.”