Danny Cohen, Channel 4's head of documentaries, has been confirmed as the new head of E4 and C4 factual entertainment.

The appointment follows previous controller Julian Bellamy's departure for the top position at BBC Three and marks an E4 return for Cohen, who was one of the channel's original commissioners when it launched in 2001.

"Danny's exceptional track record for producing highly original and incredibly diverse hit programmes makes him the ideal candidate for this challenging job, which demands such a unique combination of skills and experience," said Kevin Lygo, C4's director of programmes.

"He leaves the documentary department in excellent shape at the end of an outstanding year and with a raft of significant commissions already in production for 2006."