Vorderman had 'Countdown' co-host fears

Carol Vorderman did not feel that she could bond with another Countdown co-host, her manager has revealed.

The TV star announced that she is quitting the Channel 4 game show yesterday, just days after current frontman Des O'Connor's departure was confirmed.

Vorderman has appeared on the programme since its premiere in 1982. As well as O'Connor, she has also presented alongside Des Lynam and the late Richard Whiteley.

Speaking about a new host joining the show, Vorderman's manager John Miles explained: "She didn't think she could go through that process again. She just feels that it is time to leave."

He added: "Carol had considered quitting when Richard died suddenly three years ago but she eventually agreed to continue, turning down the offer to take over as host. She has been lucky enough to have worked with two wonderful new co-hosts.

"Carol was the first woman on Channel 4 and she is enormously grateful to have had 26 wonderful years and nearly 5,000 shows on Countdown. She wants to thank all of the crew, the thousands of contestants who have played the game and the millions of Countdown viewers."