Channel 4 have announced the names that will present their new-look racing programme alongside Clare Balding.

Nick Luck will take on a role of key presenter, supporting Balding at the premier events from January 2013 onwards, which include the Cheltenham Festival, Derby, Grand National and Royal Ascot.

Luck will also independently lead Channel 4 Racing’s weekly Saturday afternoon programmes. Balding and Luck will be joined by Alice Plunkett, Rishi Persad and Emma Spencer who will take on the roles of roving reporters. Simon Holt has been maintained as the commentator, supported by Richard Hoiles, while Jim McGrath will be joined by new recruits Graham Cunningham and Mick Fitzgerald for in-depth analysis.

Tanya Stevenson will continue in her role from the betting ring. The Morning Line will continue with Luck at the helm and Plunkett stepping in to support.

The most high-profile absentee from the Channel 4 line-up is betting pundit John McCririck and he is upset there is no place for him in the new team. “Naturally I am devastated at being sacked after covering betting, first on ITV and then Channel 4, for 31 years. It had always been a dream to report from the racecourse betting jungles at Aintree and Ascot. According to Channel 4, I’m being sacked after audience research,” he said.

“Yes, I do antagonise people as reactions to being twice in the Celebrity Big Brother house and also on Coach Trip prove. Yet, as Clare Balding, a terrific choice to lead the new young team, said recently, I’ve become the face of racing alongside Frankie Dettori and now of course Clare herself.

“Without any consultation or being asked to change my presentation style, I was only told half an hour before their press release.”