Croydon native Noel Fielding has been confirmed as the new co-host of cookery show The Great British Bake Off.
The comedian and actor, best known for his appearances on Never Mind the Buzzcocks and The Mighty Boosh, will join Sandi Toksvig and Prue Leith alongside regular host Paul Hollywood.
Noel studied at Croydon School of Art in the late 1980s and was taught by Turner-prize nominated Dexter Dalwood.
Frances Wadsworth, principal of Croydon College, said: “We’re absolutely delighted for Noel, he’s a great choice – that special Croydon ingredient to add to the Bake Off mix.”
In a statement on the Channel 4 website, Noel said: “The Great British Bake Off is one of my favourite shows.
“I’ve always loved brightly coloured cakes and Sandi Toksvig so this is a dream come true for me! It’s basically the double.”
Despite his selection being a surprise to some, his appointment continues the link Croydon has to the show.
Sue Perkins, who previously co-presented the programme on the BBC, grew up in the borough in the 1970s.
Gardener Jane Beedle, from neighbouring Bromley, was a runner-up to Candice Brown in the last series with the final watched by over 14.8 million viewers.
Channel 4 won the rights to the show last September after outbidding the BBC, home to the programme since 2010.
The Great British Bake Off returns to screens later this year.
