Matt Lucas dramatically quits Bake Off saying it ‘became clear’ he could no longer host

MATT Lucas has announced he's quit The Great British Bake-Off after three series.

The comedian - who fronted the show alongside Noel Fielding - said he could no longer host it alongside his other projects.

The star, 48, also presents the rebooted Fantasy Football League for Sky with fellow comedian Elis James and said he wasn't able to do both.

He wrote an emotional goodbye to fans - plus his onscreen pals ";Noelipops, Paul and Dame Prue".

Matt tweeted: "Farewell Bake Off! It's been a delicious experience and I can't imagine a more fun way of spending my summers.

"But it's become clear to me that I can't present both Fantasy Football League and Bake Off alongside all my other projects.

"So, after three series and 51 episodes, I am cheerfully passing the baguette on to someone else.

"I would like to give my warmest thanks and gratitude to everyone at Love Productions and Channel 4 and to Noelipops, Paul, Dame Prue, the crew and, of course, the wonderful bakers for welcoming me into the tent.

"I wish whoever takes over the very best and I can't wait to tune into the next series without already knowing who won!"

Many Great British Bake Off fans were devastated by the news, with one writing: ";You’ll be missed, Matt.

"I loved your rapport with Noel and the plentiful laughs each episode."

Another told him: "You will be missed my friend! You always brightened up my screen everytime bake off was on."

Matt, who shot to fame on Shooting Stars and alongside David Walliams in Little Britain, was announced as Bake Off's new host in March 2020.

He took over the role from Sandi Toksvig, who had previously fronted the programme with Noel after it moved to Channel 4.

It was previously presented for seven series by Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc, both of whom refused to stick with the show after the switch from the BBC.

Bake Off's bosses paid a tribute to Matt tonight saying: "We've loved having Matt Lucas brighten up our Tent for the last three years, especially when laughter and smiles were so much in need.

"We appreciate everything he's done for Bake Off, from working in Covid bubbles to supporting the bakers.

"It's been a pleasure - thanks Matt."