It's ironic, being eased out of an antiques show because of age

Michael Aspel felt forced off BBC series

- MARK JEFFERIES

TV legend Michael Aspel says he "fell on his sword" when he realised BBC bosses thought he was getting too old to front Antiques Roadshow.

The former presenter, 91, was the host of the popular series for eight years until 2008 but says he then felt forced out, being replaced by Fiona Bruce, 60.

He said: "I fell on my sword because I knew they wanted me to go. It's ironic being eased out of an antiques show because of your age."

And he claims he saw the BBC's financial cutbacks beginning over his tenure, as the quality of the accommodation he stayed in while filming declined over the years. Recalling his time on Antiques Roadshow with warmth, he said: "I'd arrive at a venue and think, 'T'd like to live here' and then think exactly the same at the next place. Although the hotels got worse and worse, and we were only allowed to have two courses for dinner.