Matt Lucas to replace Sandi Toksvig on The Great British Bake Off

Actor, writer and comedian Matt Lucas will be joining Noel Fielding and judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood in the Bake Off tent.

Matt Lucas said : ‘I’m chuffed to bits to be joining the most delicious show on television. I can’t wait to break bread with Noel, Prue and Paul and meet the brilliant bakers. And bearing in mind my love of cake, I’ve already ordered some much larger trousers in anticipation. See you in the tent!’

Welcoming Matt to the team, Noel said “I love Matt. I love his warmth and his comedy and his big joyful smile. I think if we play our cards right we could become the next Chas and Morph.

Paul said “I’m a genuine fan of Matt’s, it is such great news he will be joining us in the tent, he’s a fantastic addition to the team.”

Prue commented “The combination of Matt Lucas and Noel Fielding! Will we stop laughing and get any filming done?”

Richard McKerrow, CEO and Executive Producer, Love Productions added: It’s extremely exciting to have Matt joining the Bake Off family, he’s a phenomenal talent with a huge heart and we can’t wait to enjoy the mischief and mayhem he and Noel will inevitably create in the tent. Our new batch of bakers will be in very safe hands.

Channel 4’s Director of Programmes, Ian Katz, welcomed Matt saying “We’re thrilled that one much loved national institution is joining another. Matt has everything it takes to be a great Bake Off presenter: he’s warm, hilarious and loves cake.”

Filming for the eleventh series of The Great British Bake Off begins this spring.