Anne Robinson reveals the real reason behind quitting Countdown after feud with co-star Rachel Riley

ANNE Robinson has revealed the real reason behind her decision to leave Countdown following a feud with her co-star Rachel Riley.

The 77-year-old joked she wants an older woman to replace her - so she can spend time with her grandchildren.

The former Weakest Link star stepped into Nick Hewer’s shoes in June last year.

It made her the first female to take on the role - and sixth presenter overall.

But she will leave after just a year in the Countdown hot seat.

We revealed in November that Anne clashed with maths whizz Rachel, 35, over dressing rooms, make-up artists and wardrobe budgets backstage.

Channel 4 declined to comment at the time, but Anne later admitted: "I'm hard to please".

Although as she announced her departure, Anne insisted she was leaving to spend more time with her grandchildren.

"I've had a blast hosting this wonderful show," she told the .

"And I stayed longer than I signed up for. Now it is time for an older woman to take the reins.

"I hope too I've encouraged TV bosses to realise that not all women at the wrong end of their seventies are in care homes playing bingo and watching conjuring tricks.

"In fact the genius of Countdown is that it's a brilliant way to keep the brain exercised. I run 5k most days of the week.

"And I can now do an anagram at twice the speed I could this time last year.

"But I have grandchildren, a large garden and a home in New York, all deserving more of my attention."

Anne will remain on our screens until the summer.

Channel 4 says her replacement will be announced in due course.