The BBC has confirmed that Clare Balding will lead the live television coverage of Wimbledon from this summer.

This follows Sue Barker’s decision to step down from her role at the end of last year’s tournament after 30 outstanding years of brilliant broadcasting for the BBC.

Clare is familiar to BBC audiences and has worked on Wimbledon as a reporter, commentator and presenter for BBC radio and television since 1995.

A consummate professional and incredibly skilled at live broadcasting, Clare is an award-winning presenter who has also worked on other major sporting events for the BBC including seven Olympic Games. She is greatly respected and admired by audiences and sporting professionals alike, and will bring her knowledge, authority and personality to the role.

The partnership between the BBC and the All England Lawn Tennis Club is the longest in sports broadcasting history, spanning over 85 years on BBC TV and over 95 years on BBC radio. The BBC will once again deliver comprehensive coverage across TV, radio and online in July.

Clare Balding, says; “It’s a huge honour to be given this responsibility but I am very aware that no one person can fill Sue’s shoes.  This will always be a team effort and we’re lucky that the BBC line-up includes former professionals with huge insight as well as wonderful reporters and commentators. It’s my job to bring out the best in them and to help make our viewers feel they have a front row seat on the greatest sporting stage”

Barbara Slater, Director of BBC Sport, says: “We are thrilled to announce Clare as our new lead presenter for Wimbledon. We know she will combine her passion and knowledge for the prestigious event with the trademark energy and professionalism she brings to both those working alongside her and watching at home, and we look forward to her taking up the new role this summer.”

As with The Championships last year, Isa Guha will welcome BBC viewers to SW19 each day ahead of the start of play before Clare takes over the coverage later in the day, covering play scheduled in the afternoon and into the evening.

Further announcements about the BBC team at Wimbledon will be made in due course.