Jeremy Paxman has decided to quit Newsnight after 25 years, deciding that it is time for him to “move on”.

The popular and confrontational BBC presenter said in a statement:

I have decided it is time to move on from Newsnight.

After 25 years, I should rather like to go to bed at much the same time as most people.

This was a decision I reached – and informed the BBC of – last July. I shall work out the remainder of my contract and will not seek another.

It’s been fun. I have had the pleasure of working with lots of clever, creative and amusing people. I think I’ve been lucky and wish the programme well.

He informed the BBC of his intention to leave last summer, but agreed to work the remainder of his contract and grow a beard instead.

The presenter will stay in his role at Newsnight until June, but will continue to present University Challenge.