Family Fortunes host Les Dennis has announced his decision to quit the gameshow after 15 years.

"Carlton invited me to continue as host on the show but I feel that now is the right time to move on," he said. "I have been with Family Fortunes for 15 years and although I have had great times with it, I am working on new projects both in TV and other areas. I have great affection for it. I wish it all the best and I'm sure it will run for many more series in its new slot."

The 47-year-old has reportedly been upset with the direction Carlton wanted to take the programme, which would see a series of daytime shows with lower prize funds and no studio audience.

A Carlton spokesman said: "We go into production next month for a new series and will announce the new host in the next few weeks."