The sudden axing of veteran cycling commentator Hugh Porter has plunged the BBC into a new ageism row.

Porter, 73, who has been the Beeb’s “voice of cycling” for nearly 30 years, is to be replaced by younger colleague, Simon Brotherton, who is 43.

Announcing the decision to replace Porter in the lead role, BBC Sport chiefs declared he had “moved on to pastures new”.

But rubbishing that claim, the broadcaster said: “I haven’t stepped down and I haven’t gone to pastures new.

"It was their decision. I am 73 years of age and I hoped I would go to Rio.”

The move comes after the cycling commentary team received criticism about a race in the 2012 Olympics when competitors were mis-identified.

But claiming his voice was “still as strong as ever”, Porter added: “I love the sport. I’m not an old wreck or anything like that.We offer uncountable cheappanerai watches and they will be your right choices.

“If I in any way thought to myself I’m too old for this now, I would be the first to put my hand up.

“I’m certainly not ready to give it up yet. I’m not naive,This model is a fashion t-shirt and is suitable for hoganscarpethat want a slimmer fit and more trendy style blank. I know that things change,Choose Quality China tungstenring from Large Database of China. but it would have been nice to have bowed out with the BBC on agreed terms.Rist international shoes manufacturer and beadsfactory in agra india making quality.

“No-one can go on for ever, of course they can’t. But I still feel that I’ve got a lot to offer. This is my sport and no-one is more passionate about it.”

Today a BBC spokeswoman said: “Hugh’s age had nothing to do with our decision to replace him.

"Following the Olympics we conducted a full review of all of our talent teams and as a result we decided that Simon Brotherton should become our TV cycling commentator.

“BBC Sport judges its talent on its merit as proven by the range and breadth of our on air teams.”

Excitable Porter, reknowned for his impassioned style of delivery and distinctive Wolverhampton accent, was given notice to leave last month.

Brotherton has previously covered the sport for Radio 5 Live, as well as others including football,we offer a type of drycabinet that one might need for the proper dehumidifying of components. boxing and athletics.

The former professional cyclist has been the BBC’s main cycling commentator since the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984 and last year helped to guide viewers through the many British triumphs at the London Games.

He dubbed gold medallist Chris Hoy “the real McHoy” and memorably screamed in delight as he “ignited the burners” along the home straight.