Natasha Kaplinsky to leave Channel 5

Channel 5 newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky is to leave the broadcaster at the end of the year. Kaplinsky, who became the highest-paid newsreader in Britain when she signed a deal in 2007 supposedly worth £1m a year , will leave the channel when her contract expires. The departure of the former BBC Six O'Clock News presenter, who is already thought to be feeling out opportunities elsewhere, is understood to be by mutual agreement. Richard Desmond, the broadcaster's owner, is understood to be looking at a wider revamp of Channel 5 News, which is produced by BSkyB's Sky News operation, with more of a focus on entertainment thought to be on the cards. Channel 5 hired Kaplinsky, who fronted her first show in February 2008, to replace Kirsty Young. • To contact the MediaGuardian news desk email [email protected] or phone 020 3353 3857. For all other inquiries please call the main Guardian switchboard on 020 3353 2000. • If you are writing a comment for publication, please mark clearly "for publication".