Former BBC Breakfast co-host Louise Minchin has responded to the news that Sally Nugent is replacing her on the show's iconic red sofa.
Taking to her Instagram Stories a few hours after the broadcaster's announcement on Wednesday, the 53-year-old shared a photo of Sally and Dan Walker on the show, and sweetly expressed her enthusiasm for the new pairing.
SEE: Louise Minchin attempts surprising challenge after leaving BBC Breakfast
She captioned the image: "Huge congratulations to @sallynugenttv! Absolutely delighted for you and the team."
Earlier in the day, Dan shared his own enthusiasm for his new co-star. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, he wrote: "I am so happy for @sallynugenttv. She is the new PERMANENT @bbcbreakfast presenter [clapping emojis]."
WATCH: Louise Minchin reveals last-minute drama on last day at BBC Breakfast
The Sheffield-based broadcaster went on; "She is a brilliant on TV, massively popular with the team, an excellent journalist and a great friend. Hopefully we’ll have many happy years on the #BBCBreakfast sofa together. Oh… and she’s coming to #Strictly this weekend."
MORE: Louise Minchin 'touched' by BBC Breakfast host Dan Walker's sweet Strictly gesture
SEE: Ben Shephard risks the wrath of Dan Walker after teasing Louise Minchin's next move
Dan's fans were quick to express their enthusiasm for Sally's new role, with his fellow Strictly contestant Sara Davies writing: "Yay! Amazing news! And can’t wait to meet her on Saturday!"
© Photo: InstagramLouise expressed her enthusiasm via social media
His other followers were equally delighted by the news, with one commenting: "Great pairing."
Others added: "Brilliant news. Sally is very professional and good fun. The perfect combination.
Well done Sally, greatly deserved," and: "I'm so thrilled it's Sally. She deserves the recognition & you two really compliment each other… Bravo."
© Photo: RexThe star with her former co-host, Dan Walker
Louise, who fronted the show for an incredible 20 years, left the show last month after announcing back in June that she would be stepping down as a presenter.
As part of her address to viewers, the star quipped: "I've decided that it is time that I stop setting my alarm for 3.40 – sometimes if I'm feeling really rebellious 3.46 – in the morning and I'm going to be leaving the programme."
Like this story? Sign up to our newsletter to get other stories like this delivered straight to your inbox.
