He was a clear favourite from the start.

And now it has been confirmed that Matt Baker is the new co-host of The One Show.

The popular former Blue Peter presenter, 31, is replacing Jason Manford, who quit after finding himself at the centre of a Twitter scandal.

Matt – who has previously worked as a stand-in on the show - will take his place alongside Alex Jones (pictured) from February 14.

"I'm over the moon to be joining The One Show as a full-time presenter," said Matt, who became a public favourite after finishing runner-up in last year's Strictly Come Dancing.

"The BBC has made everything possible so I can also continue presenting Countryfile. It’s the ideal combination for me and I can't wait to get started."

Photo: � BBC