WCNC morning host Ira Cronin leaving for Colorado

Ira Cronin

After 14 years at WCNC (Channel 36), Ira Cronin is returning to the West, starting next month as a morning host at the NBC affiliate in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Cronin started at WCNC in 2001 as sports anchor and later moved to morning host. Cronin came from a sports job in Salt Lake City. He is a native of Albuquerque, N.M.

Cronin's departure marks the second this year of a high-profile, longtime personality. Investigative reporter Stuart Watson left WCNC in January. More changes can be expected in the months ahead as the station's new owner, Gannett, begins to put its imprint on the NBC affiliate .