HOLLY WILLOUGHBY IS THE NEW THIS MORNING CO-PRESENTER

Holly Willoughby is today unveiled as the new co-presenter of ITV1’s flagship daytime show, This Morning.

And she is already looking forward to joining co-host Phillip Schofield on TV’s most famous sofa after a brief visit to the studio today.

Holly said: “This Morning has always been the ultimate dream job for me.  To spend my days sat next to Phil on the sofa just makes it that bit extra special.  Now I just can’t wait for it all to start.”

Phillip said: “”Holly is a massive fan of the show, a brilliant broadcaster, a fun person to be with and she proved on the morning she spent here filling in for Fern that as presenter, she completely understands the programme.  I’m really excited and can’t wait to come back with her after the summer.”

New mum Holly brings with her a decade of experience presenting on some of television’s most popular shows, from her BAFTA-awarding winning work in children’s TV, during which she hosted ITV’s Ministry of Mayhem, to her recent success fronting Dancing On Ice, where she first forged a partnership with Phillip, which proved a hit with viewers.

Fiona Keenaghan, ITV Studios Controller of Daytime and Lifestyle, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Holly is joining This Morning and look forward to working with her for a long time to come. I am in no doubt that she and Phillip will make a formidable daytime partnership - perfect for the show’s next exciting chapter.”

Alison Sharman, ITV Director of Factual and Daytime, said: “A big warm welcome to Holly who joins This Morning at an exciting time as it heads towards its 21st birthday.  Everyone’s excited at the prospect of her new partnership with Phillip.”

Holly will join executive producer Sue Walton and the rest of the This Morning team to begin her new presenting role in September.  Her appointment follows current host Fern Britton’s decision to leave the show after 10 years.

Phillip also paid tribute to Fern ahead of her departure on Friday: “This Morning is a very close knit family and I’ve had the most fun of my whole television career with Fern. Friday is a huge day for her, the team and audience when Fern moves from the sofa back to her family and garden.”