BBC Newsline presenter Donna Traynor has quit the broadcast corporation amid ongoing "legal proceedings".

She said that because of an employment tribunal she was unable to explain further the reasons for her departure.

In a statement on Twitter she said: "It is with deep sadness that, after almost 33 years, I am leaving the job that I love and resigning fromBBC Northern Ireland with immediate effect.

"Because this is the subject of ongoing employment tribunal and other legal proceedings, I am not able to respond to any questions or comments about my reasons for leaving the organisation."

A BBC Northern Ireland spokesman said: "We do not comment on individual staff matters."

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Ms Traynor, 56, began her broadcasting career at RTÉ before joining the BBC and is one of the most familiar faces on local television.

Numerous Twitter users expressed their support for the popular news anchor following her announcement.

RTÉ and BBC broadcaster Audrey Carville said: "Really sorry to read this Donna. Will very much miss your professionalism and credibility on our screens. Wishing you well."

Last year, Ms Traynor had a three-month absence from TV screens but returned at the start of 2021.

The presenter said at the time she had been on sick leave following an operation at the beginning of October.