LONDON: A BBC newsreader wearing a sari? True.

A regional newsreader has become the first British journalist to wear a sari during a bulletin.

Sharuna Sagar, 29, who usually reads the morning news on BBC Midlands Today, decided to try the ethnic Indian dress when she had more time to get ready on the late shift.

She said: "When I go to India I see the newsreaders in saris and they look fantastic and professional. As a British Asian I'm part of both cultures and would like to reflect that."

Sharuna added: "Normally there isn't time to put one on as I get up at 4 a.m.

"It takes 15 minutes and I really need someone to help me. Like a bow tie, you have to get it right.

"But when I knew I was going to do the late news I asked my boss, acting editor Dave Hart, and he said 'yes' before I could even finish my sentence."

Sharuna, whose family roots are in Hyderabad, works on BBC Midlands Today based at Pebble Mill in Birmingham.