Mary Berry Announces She WON'T Follow 'Bake Off' To Channel 4

Another devastating blow was dealt to fans of ‘The Great British Bake Off’ today, as head judge Mary Berry confirmed that she will not be a part of the show when it moves to Channel 4 next year.

The 81 year old baker and TV chef has sided with the show’s co-presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins in refusing to make the move from the BBC at the end of this year, and said in a statement delivered on Thursday (September 22nd) that she was making the decision out of “loyalty” to the show and its home on the BBC.

“What a privilege and honour it has been to be part of seven years of magic in a tent – ‘The Great British Bake Off’,” she said. “The Bake Off family - Paul, Mel and Sue have given me so much joy and laughter.”

Channel 4 announced that it had bid £75 million for three series of ‘Bake Off’, with the BBC only able to offer £15 million – more than double what it has paid for the current seventh series.

More: Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins will not follow ‘The Great British Bake Off’ to Channel 4

“My decision to stay with the BBC is out of loyalty to them, as they have nurtured me, and the show, that was a unique and brilliant format from day one,” Berry’s statement continued.

“I am just sad for the audience who may not be ready for change, I hope they understand my decision. I wish the programme, crew and future bakers every possible success and I am so very sad not to be a part of it. Farewell to soggy bottoms.”

It comes the day after her co-presenter, Paul Hollywood, was seen sneaking in the back door of Channel 4’s offices in central London for what was reported to be a ‘secret meeting’.

The news means that three-quarters of the current presenting line-up will not be taking part next year, with only Hollywood left to make up his mind whether to remain with the show.

More: Gregg Wallace slams Mary Berry’s comments about deep-fat fryers