The change is part of a new presenter line-up for all of BBC One's news bulletins.

In a change in format, the Six O'Clock news will now be co-presented, by George Alagiah and Sophie Raworth.

Fiona Bruce moves to become the Friday night presenter of the Ten O'Clock News.

Alagiah made his name as a foreign correspondent

Dermot Murnaghan and Natasha Kaplinsky will front BBC One's Breakfast, with Sian Williams and Bill Turnbull presenting the programme on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The One O'Clock news will continue to be presented by Anna Ford, with Darren Jordon staying on as second presenter.

The changes, which will take effect from the start of 2003, come after news of the departure of Peter Sissons and Michael Buerk from BBC One's flagship 10pm news programme.

Last week the BBC confirmed that Peter Sissons was to step down after 13 years with the corporation - just weeks after co-presenter Michel Buerk announced his retirement.

Mr Sissons, 60, is to move to the BBC's rolling TV news service News 24.

'Privilege'

The names of both Huw Edwards and Fiona Bruce were mentioned in press speculation that the Ten O'Clock News needed to attract a more multicultural audience and younger female viewers.

Anna Ford's BBC career began in 1976 with Man Alive

Huw Edwards said he was "very much looking forward" to the challenges of his new role.

"It's a huge privilege to follow in the footsteps of Peter Sissons and Michael Buerk," he said.

Incoming Six O'Clock News presenter George Alagiah, who transfers from BBC Four News, said: "It's a rare privilege to be asked to anchor what is the most watched news programme in Britain."

Natasha Kaplinsky - formerly of Sky News and regional ITV bulletin London Tonight - described her new role on BBC One's Breakfast as "a dream job".

"I can hardly wait for the 3am alarm call," she added.