Deayton 'to return for HIGNFY milestone'

Rex Features

Angus Deayton has been tipped to make a one-off comeback to Have I Got News For You next year.

The 53-year-old presenter fronted the satirical panel show for 12 years before being axed amid revelations over his private life in 2002. His role is now filled by weekly guest hosts.

According to the Daily Express, BBC bosses have agreed to ask Deayton to return for a special episode when the programme marks its 20th anniversary in 2010.

An insider said: "There's no way Angus would be coming back on a permanent basis but it's only fitting he's there."

Deayton has hosted Hell's Kitchen and Bognor Or Bust for ITV and BBC comedy panel show Would I Lie To You? since being dropped from the programme.

Earlier this year, show panellist Ian Hislop admitted that his co-star Paul Merton "never liked" Deayton.