Sacked NBN newsreader Paul Lobb breaks his silence after being axed

Popular Newcastle presenter and journalist Paul Lobb has replied to the avalanche of public support he received after his surprise departure.

Sacked NBN newsreader Paul Lobb has thanked his loyal supporters while hinting he was blindsided by his axing just before Christmas.

The popular news presenter and journalist recorded a brief video following several weeks of a social media storm which broke out following his surprise exit from the Newcastle-based station on December 13.

Through Newcastle-based advertising agency Out of the Square Media, Lobb makes only a fleeting mention of the decision to punt him after 24 years at the station.

“After many happy years of bringing you the news I was just as surprised as you were recently to find out that my time on the desk was over,’’ Lobb says.

Paul Lobb and Natasha Beyersdorf

“I just wanted to let you know that from my days on the road reporting and bringing you the stories of the region through to presenting the news, I have loved every minute.

“And in recent weeks your messages of support and love have been truly incredible.

“From reaching out to me personally on social media. Wow, there was even a petition that thousands off you signed so thank you, I feel so grateful.

“So what’s next. Well, I am going to take a bit of a break but hopefully I will be seeing you somewhere soon.

“Thank you again for your love and support and bye for now.’’

The decision to sack Lobb, just a few days after the news teams’ Christmas party and with no warning, caused widespread angst among viewers.

Interestingly, the Out of the Square Media post on Facebook also mentions a petition, which was set up in the week after Lobb left, calling on his reinstatement.

Lobb, who had taken over reading the news bulletins from Ray Dinneen a decade ago, will be replaced by weather presenter Gavin Morris, who will join Natasha Beyersdorf on the desk.