Ant & Dec look forward to working with Grade

Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly have confirmed that they "can't wait" to work with Michael Grade next year.

The Geordie duo, who have brought success to ITV with Saturday Night Takeaway and I'm A Celebrity, have revealed that they have high hopes for the network's future with Grade as executive chairman.

"We're really excited. A legend within the industry. We've met before but never worked together," Donnelly explained at the British Comedy Awards this week. "He was at Channel 4 when we signed to do a series there in 1996 or something, so we've crossed paths before, but can't wait to work with him. We're still at ITV for another year, and who knows after that?

"For us, we grew up with ITV, it was the channel of choice in our homes, because of what it did - mass entertainment, great dramas, bringing the nation together, shared viewing experiences for the whole family. That's what we've tried to do with our shows."

Ant added: "And we've been lucky to be on a lot of good shows. If anything, it's a lot about that tradition carrying on."