Paul Merton to guest host 'The One Show'

Paul Merton has been confirmed as a guest host of The One Show after Adrian Chiles leaves on Friday.

The Have I Got News For You team captain will anchor the show next Thursday, with Watchdog presenter Matt Allwright also confirmed for Monday's programme.

Allwright will then return on the Friday as well as each day the following week, except Thursday, for which the BBC have yet to announce a stand-in.

However, the search for a permanent replacement for Chiles is still ongoing. Bosses are believed to have lined up several candidates to host the show alongside Christine Bleakley.

Those believed to be in the running include Channel Five presenter Matthew Wright as well as One Show regulars Chris Hollins and Rav Wilding. Other stars rumoured to be considered for the position include Jamie Theakston and Dermot O'Leary.

One source told The Guardian: "It's really got to be someone who works well with Christine. There's no rush."

Earlier this month, Chiles revealed that it was "no secret" he was disappointed over plans to replace him with Chris Evans on Friday editions of the show, which he has fronted since 2006.

> Chiles 'feels betrayed' by Bleakley