The search began today for a telegenic mathematics expert to replace Countdown presenter Carol Vorderman, wHO is stepping down after 26 long time on the Channel 4 gameshow.
Her decision follows the announcement on Wednesday that Des O'Connor, the 76-year-old current server of Countdown, is as well to depart the show.
Vorderman, 47, has been with the establish since it began in 1982 and was the first charwoman to appear on Channel 4.
The sponsor, who appeared on nigh 5,000 episodes of the show, was said to be "extremely sad".
It is believed Vorderman's decision was motivated by a desire not to go through having to bond certificate with even another new co-presenter.
Her managing director, John Miles, said: "She didn't think she could go through that process again. She just feels that it is fourth dimension to leave."
For more than 20 long time she acted as a foil to the show's main donor Richard Whiteley, who died in 2005.
In a statement, her manager said she had considered quitting following his death, but eventually agreed to continue aboard first Des Lynam and then Des O'Connor.
The passing of Vorderman and O'Connor is trusted to lead to increased speculation o'er Countdown's future and the role of the programme's other regulars.
More info
