IPSWICH Town legend Kevin Beattie was in typically upbeat mood today after being axed by BBC Radio Suffolk.He received the bombshell news yesterday that his former captain, Mick Mills, would replace him behind the microphone next season.

By Mel Henderson

IPSWICH Town legend Kevin Beattie was in typically upbeat mood today after being axed by BBC Radio Suffolk.

He received the bombshell news yesterday that his former captain, Mick Mills, would replace him behind the microphone next season.

But Beattie, 48, said: "I fought death a few years ago so I'm not about to let this situation get to me. I'm a battler and always will be.

"Yes, I am disappointed and I don't think you would expect any other reaction, but I'll definitely get

over it."

Beattie, consistently voted Town's greatest-ever player in supporters' polls, had been the station's

summariser for three seasons.

He first teamed up with commentator Terry Baxter, who joined Town as press manager in December last year, and then partnered Bryan Knights through to the end of the season.

Beattie conquered pancreatitis more than a decade ago, amazing doctors with his power of recovery after they expressed fears he would not make it.

He added: "Anyone who knows me will tell you I'm not a bitter person. There are no grudges on my part and I wish Millsy all the best in the job.

"The thing I'll miss most is the supporters. I always had time for them and loved to chat with the fans on away trips.

"But this isn't the end of the Beat. I prefer to think of it as a new beginning – who knows what is around the corner in life?

"I could have done with hearing earlier, mind you. To be told within a few days of the new season is

hardly ideal.

"But I'm a Town man through and through, and I'll still be at every home game.

"What I want to see more than anything next season is the club winning back its place in the Premiership."

While local radio listeners may not be hearing from the ex-England star next season, he will still be

shooting from the lip in The Evening Star.

Sports editor, Mike Horne, said today: "We won't be dropping the Beat. He remains as popular now as in the peak of his career and he tells it like it is.

"His views are always refreshing and frank and he will continue to be a valuable member of the Star sports team."

No-one from Radio Suffolk was available to comment at the time of going to press.