Bake Off star Paul Hollywood has signed a deal to continue hosting the show when it moves to Channel 4.

The baker, who lives in Wingham, near Canterbury, has put pen to paper on a three-year contract, a spokesman confirmed today.

But the 50-year-old will not be joined by co-presenter Mary Berry, who announced her departure from the Love Productions show this morning.

The duo have hosted The Great British Bake Off since its inception in 2010 alongsideMel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins, who have also both chosen not to make the switch to Channel 4.

In a statement, Mr Hollywood said: "Since I was a kid, baking has been part of my life. The seven series inside the tent have created some great memories.

"Best of all, I have felt so pleased to experience other people getting the baking bug, just as I did when my dad helped me make my first loaf.

"The Great British Bake Off has brought baking to the nation and we've seen people from all walks of life and backgrounds, experience the highs and lows of competition, and more importantly helping each other.

"It's been a huge part of my life in the past few years and I just couldn't turn my back on all that - the bakers themselves, the bakes, the team that makes it, and of course the tent, the bunting, and who could forget… the squirrels.

"So I am delighted that I will be continuing as a judge when Bake Off moves to Channel 4. I want to thank the BBC and Mel and Sue for making my time in the tent great fun and really rewarding."