Emma Crosby confirmed for Channel 5 News

Emma Crosby has been announced as the new face of Channel 5 News.

As was rumoured last month, the former GMTV host will take over the 7pm slot from Natasha Kaplinsky, who left the broadcaster last year.

She will present her first bulletin on February 14 and will work alongside current Channel 5 newsreader Matt Barbet, who will continue to front the 5pm show.

Crosby said: "I am hugely excited about joining the team. From the outset, Channel 5 News have always enjoyed the reputation of offering viewers something a little bit different and I am over the moon to be a part of that.

"Matt and I studied at university together so I'm looking forward to the reunion too!"

Channel 5 News editor David Kermode said: "I'm thrilled we have signed two of the brightest talents in the business to front our news programmes.

"Matt is already a familiar and trusted face for our viewers, having been Natasha's very successful stand-in for the last three years on our flagship show.

"Emma is already well-established on network television and will be a huge asset for us as we seek to build the profile of our 7pm programme."