Tom Bradby's colleagues protest the ITV newsreader's comments

• A group of journalists have written to ITN chiefs about 'adverse impact' on staff

ITN faced internal pressure last night to respond to a comment made by Tom Bradby that ‘there aren’t many white, male anchors left’ on television.

The ITV News anchor, 57, said he feels secure in his role as a result, despite the growing number of presenters at the broadcaster.

But a group of ITV journalists have written to ITN chief executive Rachel Corp and news editor Andrew Dagnell expressing concerns about the ‘adverse impact’ Mr Bradby’s remarks have had on staff, according to The Times.

In an interview with Radio Times, the journalist said: ‘There aren’t many white, male anchors left, dare I say, so I feel a bit less nervous about that [job security] than possibly I should.’

Journalists at ITN have written to bosses expressing concerns about the 'adverse impact' of anchor Tom Bradby's remarks about the lack of 'white, male anchors' left

One female anchor pointed out that figures such as Channel 5's Dan Walker remain in prominent positions

Other employees defended the presenter, saying he was asked a tricky question about his own position. Pictured: Channel 4 anchor Matt Frei

One female anchor challenged Mr Bradby’s opinion, pointing out that figures such as Channel 5’s Dan Walker and Channel 4’s Matt Frei continue to hold prominent positions.

‘Men have ruled the roost in broadcasting for aeons so he needs to pack away the world’s tiniest violin,’ she said.

However, other employees defended Mr Bradby, pictured. An ITN source said: ‘Tom was asked a tricky question about his own position in the industry.

‘He wasn’t suggesting it’s a worrying trend and he’s always been incredibly supportive in the newsroom.’

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