Caption: Pictured: Countdown host Colin Murray.
Photographer: AMY BRAMMALL
Copyright: Amy Brammall / Lifted Entertainment
(Credits: AMY BRAMMALL)

After stepping up as the temporary host of Countdown, Colin Murray is taking on the role on a permanent basis, it has been confirmed.

Last summer, the radio and TV presenter was announced as one of the individuals who would be taking on the hot seat to fill the shoes of Anne Robinson, who helmed the Channel 4 programme for a year.

Fans loved Colin’s turn on the series, so many will undoubtedly be delighted to hear he’s staying for good.

Announcing the news on Steph’s Packed Lunch on Wednesday, the 45-year-old said: ‘It’s a career dream to be named as permanent anchor of one of television’s most iconic programmes.

‘I have been a fan since day one, been part of the family for over a decade, appearing on Dictionary Corner, and now I get the honour of guiding it into a fifth decade.’

Colin stressed that he doesn’t just want Countdown ‘survive’, but also wants it to ‘thrive’.

Colin will be joining Rachel Riley and Susan Dent on the show (Picture: Amy Brammall/Lifted Entertainment)

The presenter’s love for Countdown is clear to see (Picture: Lifted Entertainment/ITV Studios)

‘During my caretaker stint we’ve seen more people tune back in, with close to a million [0.9m] watching the series final in December, and I want that to just be the beginning,’ he stated.

‘Countdown is a special show, and its stars will always be the letters and the numbers, but it’s more than that,’ he continued.

‘Great afternoon company for people of all ages from all across the UK. Rachel, Susie and I are very excited for the year ahead. If you haven’t watched in a while, drop by and join us. Everyone is welcome.’

More to follow.

‘I just don’t want Countdown to survive, I want it to thrive,’ he said.