Channel 4 denies 'Countdown' axe

Channel 4 has insisted that Countdown will continue despite objections from the Belgian businessman who owns the show's rights.

Marcel Stellman earlier condemned the broadcaster for its treatment of co-host Carol Vorderman, who was allegedly asked to take a 90% pay cut or step down.

"I control the format and without the format there is no show. I am upset for Carol, more than that. This is a person I have known for 26 years who started Countdown," he said.

However, Channel 4 dismissed Stellman's claims, stating that the popular quiz show still has a future.

"The show is made for ITV Productions for us and that hasn't changed. Carol is leaving at the end of the year," the broadcaster said in a statement.

> Vorderman: I was forced out