CHANNEL 4 - DES O'CONNOR QUITS AS COUNTDOWN HOST

DES O'CONNOR QUITS AS COUNTDOWN HOST

Des O'Connor has announced that he is to quit as the host of Channel 4's Countdown in November.

The 76-year-old declared he missed the "thrill" of performing in live concerts and the challenge of live TV shows.

Speaking of his time on Countdown, he said: "It's been wonderful hosting a programme which is part of TV folklore. I have really enjoyed my two years with the show and I would like to thank all concerned at Channel 4.

"I've made a lot of new friends. Carol Vorderman has been a joy... it's been a giggle since day one. But I miss the thrill of stepping out on a live stage for the one-man concerts and the challenge of live TV entertainment-based shows."

O'Connor is currently working on his 36th album, Setting New Standards, as well as writing children's stories and poems.

He joined Countdown in January 2007 after taking over from Des Lynam who lasted only one series as the show's host.

Helen Warner, Channel 4's head of daytime, said: "We are very sorry to see Des leave. He has done a fantastic job hosting Countdown bringing warmth and humour to the role, as well as the benefit of his many years in the business."

She added that a replacement for O'Connor would be named "in due course".