Lynam confirmed as new 'Countdown' host

[Miss Muffet]

Des Lynam has been confirmed as the replacement for the late Richard Whiteley at the helm of Countdown.

The sports presenter, a housewives' favourite, will begin filming next month as the afternoon quiz show enters its 54th series.

“Channel 4 came to me out of the blue and I was flattered and surprised to be asked to present Countdown - a show of which I have always been a fan," said Lynam today. "It will be a hugely difficult task to replace Richard Whiteley but I’m very much looking forward to working with Carol Vorderman who, I am sure, will lead me by the hand and steer me through it.”

Co-host Vorderman added: “Des and I have known each other for nearly 10 years and we’ve always got on really well. All the Countdown family has missed Countdown, and our wonderful Countdown viewers have been so supportive to us, Kathy and all of Richard’s family throughout his illness and eventual passing. We all know that it won’t ever be the same without him but Des has always been a Countdown viewer and had a huge respect for Richard. In that we find great comfort.”