ANNE ROBINSON TAKES OVER COUNTDOWN FROM 28 JUNE (FIRST LOOK)

Anne Robinson takes up the Countdown reins from Monday 28 June on Channel 4, replacing Nick Hewer as the first female host of Channel 4’s longest running series.

She will join numbers whizz Rachel Riley and wordsmith Susie Dent, where together they will be the TV programme’s formidable female trio, every weekday at 2.10pm.

On her new all-female team, Anne Robinson, who will become Countdown’s sixth host said: "Three Girls Do Countdown - who wouldn't want to watch?”

Reflecting on filming with journalist and broadcaster Anne Robinson, Rachel Riley said: "It’s been really fun watching Anne very quickly find her feet in the Countdown studio and seeing the contestants in the new groove with her. She’s not shy of asking them funny questions and the responses have ranged from going into their own comedy routines to not looking directly at her and hoping she doesn’t see them - it’s been very lively!"

Susie Dent added: “I’m so pleased to be able to work with Anne again. She has been a heroine of mine ever since she gently rescued me from an embarrassing moment on my first bit of live TV. With her flair and wit, she’s going to be a wonderful addition to the Countdown team.”

Channel 4 Head of Daytime, Jo Street, said: "I am a huge fan of Anne and her quick wit. I am immensely proud that this ferociously smart woman will be joining the show as host alongside the brilliant Rachel Riley and Susie Dent."