MY TIME'S UP
Nick Hewer QUITS Countdown after ten years on the show
COUNTDOWN host Nick Hewer has quit after fronting the teatime show for a decade.
The 76-year-old, who had been taking a break from the series while he shielded from coronavirus, revealed he will not return next year.
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He paid tribute to his co-stars Rachel Riley and Susie Dent in an emotional post on Twitter where he wished good luck to the next host.
The veteran host has been replaced by Colin Murray on the show while he stayed at home during the pandemic but returned to the studio this week.
Nick tweeted today: "Delighted to be back in the Countdown studio after another enforced lockdown, BUT this latest lockdown has given me an opportunity to consider my future life.
"I’ve decided it’s a good time to step down at the end of my contract in the New Year.
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"As someone in his 77th year, who will be in his 10th year hosting the great British institution that is Countdown, I think it’s time to smell the flowers and get a dog.
"But let me now take the opportunity to say that it’s been a privilege and a pleasure to take the helm of Countdown, first broadcast back in 1982 and still a Guinness record holder.
"Although I’ll be on your screens well into 2021, let me thank the broadcasters Channel 4, the truly dedicated and unwaveringly professional studio crew and production staff at ITV Studios who make the programmes, all 250 or so a year.
"My wonderfully talented co-hosts Susie Dent and Rachel Riley but above all, the quirky genius of producer Damian Eadie, who never ceases to amuse and who always demands the best of us.
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"And a sincere thanks to our loyal viewers and of course the legions of contestants who battle their brains out for the chance of carrying off the Richard Whiteley Trophy or a priceless teapot.
"And so, to whoever takes my seat, I wish you every success and hope that you have as much fun and reward as I’ve enjoyed."
Nick was bombarded with messages of thanks from fans of the show - and former Countdown stars.
One wrote: "As one of the many contestants on your watch, thank you for making my experience so special and generally for helming with such grace and good humour. You will be missed."
Another tweeted: "Will miss seeing you on-screen Nick- you've had a great run, and I hope the next presenter is similarly dry and witty!"
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