CNN's European political editor Robin Oakley (pictured) is retiring from the network and a source confirms correspondent Alphonso Van Marsh is leaving CNN as well. Both are based out of CNN's London bureau.

Oakley, 67, has been with CNN since 2000. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire for his services to political journalism in 2001. He was previously chief political editor at BBC for eight years. He will continue to write a horseracing column in The Spectator newspaper.

"I hope to pop up in the future with an occasional contribution, because I shall miss the buzz of daily contact with so many dedicated, professional and truly internationally-minded friends," writes Oakley in a memo to the staff, obtained by TVNewser.

Van Marsh joined CNN in 1995 as a freelance correspondent and producer.

Click continued to see the full memo from Oakley and a note about his departure from Tony Maddox, EVP and managing director of CNN International...

After my eight years (nearly) as European Political Editor Tony and I have agreed that on December 31 I should end my full-time role at CNN, a fast-evolving organization with fresh needs and priorities. I have loved my work. I have loved the people I do it with even more. I hope to pop up in the future with an occasional contribution, because I shall miss the buzz of daily contact with so many dedicated, professional and truly internationally-minded friends. But with two books under way and my racing columns to write I will not be 'retiring'. My grateful thanks to all of you at CNN who have taught me so much and given me so much fun. Good luck to you all.

Cheers. Robin.

From Maddox:

Robin will be truly missed by all those who have worked with him, and crucially, those who use our services. His authority and insight are truly outstanding, and for decades he has been one of the very best reporters of the British and European political scene.

It is a wonderful achievement to be widely revered as one of the leaders in your field. This is made all the more remarkable when you are also widely liked and admired by all of those who have the good fortune to work with you.

Robin is a real gentleman, in every sense of the word, and we wish him the best for the very busy future that awaits him.

Thank you, and good luck sir.

Tony