There has been lots of speculation surrounding the positions which need to be filled on The Great British Bake Off when the show moves to Channel 4 later this year. And following the announcement of Crystal Maze's return, it has been hotly tipped that the gameshow's new host Richard Ayoade will be given the Bake Off gig.
So much so bookmakers William Hill have made Richard their 5/1 favourite. "Clearly the top brass at Channel 4 are fans of Richard and he must be a real contender for the coveted GBBO presenting slot," said spokesman Rupert Adams.
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© Photo: Getty ImagesBookmakers believe Richard Ayoade is tipped to be the next Bake Off host
On Friday morning, it was revealed British comedian Richard will be bringing his charm as the new Maze Master, taking over from past hosts Richard O'Brien and Ed Tudor-Pole. It's been 21 years since the adventure game show aired on screens. The series, which originally aired from 1990 to 1995, returned to Channel 4 in October 2016 for a Stand Up To Cancer celebrity special, and proved to be a huge success after gaining an audience of 4.3 million viewers.
© Photo: BBCThe show will air later this year following its move to Channel 4
Last year, Paul Hollywood confirmed he would remain as judge for the next series. His decision was met with controversy, particularly after fellow judge Mary Berry and show hosts Mel and Sue announced their plans to remain with the BBC. Speaking at the Good Food Show last year, he said: "I spoke to Mary about it all the way through and she said 'I would go too if I was your age'."
Mary has since spoken about Paul's move with the show to Channel 4. While attending the National Reality TV Awards, she explained: "It's going to be different, but I am sure Paul will carry it on successfully."
