Countdown's Nick Hewer is leaving the host's chair after almost a decade fronting the Channel 4 game show.
The former Apprentice star announced on Twitter that he would not be renewing his contract in January.
Swindon-born Hewer, who was educated at Clongowes Wood College in Co Kildare, recently took a break from Countdown to shield at home during the Covid-19 lockdown in the UK. BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Colin Murray took over as host of those shows.
On Monday, Hewer wrote on Twitter: "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 and I've decided it's a good time to step down at the end of my contract in the New Year.
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 and I've decided it’s a good time to step down at the end of my contract in the New Year.
— Nick Hewer (@Nick_Hewer) December 7, 2020
As someone in his 77th year,
"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 broadcast back in 1982 and still a Guinness record holder."
Hewer thanked Channel 4 and his "wonderfully talented" co-hosts Susie Dent and Rachel Riley, among others.
"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," he added.
