Why Matt Lucas decided to leave the Great British Bake Off and is no longer presenter

A new series of the Great British Bake Off returns to Channel 4 on Tuesday night (September 26) - complete with a new line-up of bakers and a new host.

Twelve hopefuls will be cooking up a storm as they attempt to impress the judges, earn that all-important handshake from Bake Off veteran Paul Hollywood and be named Star Baker. Prue Leith will once again join Paul for the ultimate taste tests, while host Noel Fielding will be accompanied by a new presenter for this year's series.

This Morning star Alison Hammond will be helping to front the programme, replacing comedian Matt Lucas - who had co-hosted the show for three seasons. Last year, Matt explained why he made the decision to step down - including a silver lining in doing so.

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The 48-year-old explained last December that he was leaving as he could no longer commit to the programme’s schedule alongside his other projects, including his new hosting role on the revived comedy show Fantasy Football League.

In an Instagram post, he wrote: “Farewell Bake Off! It’s been a delicious experience and I can’t imagine a more fun way of spending my summers. But it’s become clear to me that I can’t present both Fantasy Football League and Bake Off alongside all my other projects.

“So, after three series and 51 episodes, I am cheerfully passing the baguette on to someone else."

The presenter also praised his team, adding: “I would like to give my warmest thanks and gratitude to everyone at Love Productions and Channel 4 and to Noelipops, Paul, Dame Prue, the crew and, of course, the wonderful bakers for welcoming me into the tent."

He wished his successor the 'very best' and