Rachel Riley set to replace Anne Robinson as Countdown host as bookies slash odds

RACHEL Riley has jumped to the front of stars tipped to replace Anne Robinson as host of Countdown.

Anne, 77, revealed she would be leaving Countdown after one year in the host's seat and speculation has been rife ever since as who would replace her.

But now bookies have slashed the odds of maths whiz Rachel who currently cohosts the Channel 4 show alongside Anne.

She sitting at the top of the table alongside Rachel is comedian Paul O'Grady, both at 3/1 odds.

Moira Stuart is next in line at 4/1 and is the same price as Colin Murray, while Sir Trevor McDonald and Sandi Toksvig are also in the running at 6/1 and 7/1 respectively. 

“Not many saw Anne Robinson deciding to leave Countdown but with her exit now confirmed, attention has turned to who will replace her in the presenting chair on the famous show," said William Hill spokesperson, Tony Kenny.

“The current favourites are Rachel Riley and Paul O’Grady with both looking obvious candidates, while further down the list Sir Trevor McDonald, who has already had a go in the role, is a 6/1 chance.” 

Pointless star Richard Osman recently ruled himself out of the race.

Last month the telly favourite, 51, walked away from the long-running BBC One series having filmed more than 1,300 episodes and
nearly 30 series.

He wrote on Twitter: "I keep reading I'm the favourite to be the new Countdown host.

"But there are 3 problems. 1. I just gave up a show I love because I have no time. 2. @susiedent and I are mortal enemies. 3. They should give the job to @ColinMurray."

Announced her departure, Anne insisted she was leaving to spend more time with her grandchildren.

She blasted claims it was because of a feud with her co-star Rachel Riley.

Although she did admit they weren't friends outside of work.

"I’m not saying I would go on holiday with Rachel Riley, but she is brilliant", Anne told the .

"Absolutely honestly, I do admire her – she is really, really good at what she does, as is Susie Dent. 

"Look, Rachel has just come back from having a baby and she is standing throughout and faultless, whereas I get to sit down.

"She is noisy, yes she and Susie both are – they are a formidable pair those two."

Reacting to Anne's departure, Susie wrote on Twitter: "Some Countdown news. Wishing Anne all the very best in her new adventures with her grandchildren and beyond."

The post was retweeted by Rachel.

Anne will remain on our screens until the summer.

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