One of the most recognizable faces in Okanagan news will make his final appearance tonight after nearly 30 years as an anchor.

Rick Webber, who works for Global, will say goodbye at 5 pm this evening.

He started his career over 43 years ago when he got a job as a part-time DJ at a radio station on Prince Edward Island in 1976.

Webber moved to BC in 1978 and, in 1990, arrived in his beloved Okanagan.

Photo credit: Contributed

“While I will greatly miss my regular connection with the viewers, it is the right time in my life to step away from full-time broadcasting and make room for the next generation of journalists,” Webber said when his retirement was announced in May.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to connect with the local audience and I hope to continue my involvement in the community in the years ahead.”

Webber, who was born in Winnipeg, praised the valley for its beautiful weather.

He won first place in the Local News Reporter category of the Best of Kelowna awards in 2016.

“Rick has been one of the longest serving and most prominent members of our newsroom, and we wish him much more success as he transitions into the next phase of his life,” said Kenton Boston, vice-president of news and information in Western Canada for Corus Entertainment, the company that owns Global.

“Rick is a true professional and it has been a pleasure to have him at the forefront of our journalism, telling the stories that matter to us all.”