[Marcus.]

Funnyman will become the face of the Channel 4 cult classic with episodes set to air later this year

HE’s been tipped to take over from MEL GIEDROYC and SUE PERKINS when Bake Off switches to Channel 4.

But now comedian RICHARD AYOADE has another hosting gig on his hands.

I’ve learned the IT Crowd funnyman will become the new presenter of Nineties cult classic The Crystal Maze.

Richard will be replacing STEPHEN MERCHANT, who I revealed had quit the hit Channel 4 show after October’s celebrity special which starred RIO FERDINAND, MICHELLE KEEGAN and Paralympian JONNIE PEACOCK.

The move makes Richard a Channel 4 staple because of his regular appearances on Big Fat Quiz of the Year and documentary series Travel Man.

An insider said: “Richard has been a huge hit on Channel 4 and has really clicked with younger viewers who love his off-beat sense of humour and quirky spark.

“Show chiefs were therefore delighted to sign Richard up as The Crystal Maze’s new host.

“They believe his eccentric style and comedic charm will be the secret ingredient to giving the vintage game show a fresher look.

“Having worked with the likes of REBEL WILSON, JONATHAN ROSS and CLAUDIA WINKLEMAN in the past, bosses are also hoping Richard can use his connections to get some great talent on the celeb specials.”

The Crystal Maze sees teams of competitors racing around the largest set on TV, visiting elaborately-themed time and space zones to take part in tense challenges and win crystals.

At its height, the problem-solving favourite was the most popular show on Channel 4, regularly drawing in between four and six million viewers.

Richard will be stepping into the shoes of former hosts RICHARD O’BRIEN and EDWARD TUDOR-POLE in new episodes set to air later this year.

No pressure then.

yessssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss :c heer2::che er2::cheer 2:

[Mitchell]

"Having worked with the likes of JONATHAN ROSS in the past"

Not THE Jonathan Ross

[Jack_]

This is actually an inspired choice

I do hope the new series isn't just all celebrity specials though

[Denver]

SamToya were robbed