A much-loved presenter has hosted her last regional news programme after almost four decades on screen.

Sally Taylor anchored her final BBC news show on Thursday, where she has been the face of South Today since 1987.

She has been the longest-serving female presenter on a flagship BBC regional news programme.

READ MORE: BBC South Today presenter Sally Taylor to leave after 40 years

Speaking on the show last night, Sally said she had a "bit of news" of her own and welled up as she told viewers this would be her final time on the red sofa.

"I've got a stone on my shoe, and somebody said if you have a stone in your shoe and you press on it, you won't get emotional," she said.

"It's actually working because it's killing me."

Peter Cook, senior head of content production for BBC South, added: "Sally is a broadcasting legend.

"She’s had an incredible career at the BBC and earned the respect and affection of our viewers who have trusted her to tell them what’s happening and why."