Tim Gardam to leave Channel 4

Tim Gardam has resigned from his position as director of television at Channel 4.
Gardam, who has been with Channel 4 since 1998, will leave at the end of the year.
Citing personal reasons and a desire to try "something new", Gardam said: "I am announcing my decision now because I want to ensure a smooth succession. And it leaves me free to consider various options without it causing uncertainty here."
Underlining his commitment to Channel 4, he confirmed that: "I will continue to drive our programming through to the end of the year."
A replacement for Mr Gardam will be appointed later this year, with Kevin Lygo, Channel Five's director of programmes, widely predicted as the first choice of Channel 4 chief executive Mark Thompson.
Lygo spent three years at Channel 4 as head of arts and entertainment before moving to five in 2000.
Mark Thompson praised Gardam as an "enormous creative force" who would be a big loss to Channel 4. He said: "He warned me some time ago that he was unlikely to want to stay beyond 2003. Although I understand and respect his reason for going, I and all his colleagues will still miss the amazing passion and integrity he brought to Channel 4.
"Tim has presided over a period of unmatched programming range and quality, while maintaining our share of viewing in a highly competitive market."
(GB)