The comedian will co-host alongside Noel Fielding in series 11…

Little Britain star Matt Lucas is to host The Great British Bake Off with Noel Fielding from series 11, joining judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood.

Series 11, which starts filming soon, will begin without former host Sandi Toksvig, who departed the beloved baking series in the new year, having been on board since the series swapped to Channel 4 back in 2017.

“I’m chuffed to bits to be joining the most delicious show on television,” said Lucas. “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.”

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

“It’s extremely exciting to have Matt joining the Bake Off family,” said Richard McKerrow, CEO and executive producer of Love Productions. “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 programs Ian Katz noted that “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.”