Jonathan Ross to host new-look comedy awards

Jonathan Ross (PA)

Jonathan Ross was confirmed today as the host of the re-vamped British Comedy Awards.

Ross has been the longstanding face of the show, which is transferring from ITV to Channel 4 after 20 years in a three-year deal.

When the move was announced earlier this week, organisers could not confirm whether Ross would continue.

But Ross, who is soon to quit his BBC roles, said today he was "delighted" that he would remain at the helm.

He said: "The British Comedy Awards is, in my opinion, the most exciting, entertaining and challenging award show on British TV.

"I'm delighted that Channel 4 want me to carry on hosting it."

Head of comedy at Channel 4 Shane Allen said: "The British Comedy Awards is a national institution, and Jonathan Ross is an enormous part of what makes it such a consistently must-watch event.

"We're thrilled that he will host our reinvigorated coverage."

The show has attracted its fair share of scandal over the years, including gags that have backfired and voting controversy.

Channel 4 has promised to bring the ceremony, which will be broadcast later this year, "bang up to date, reinvigorating the brand and reverting to a live broadcast, injecting spontaneity, excitement and edge into the new-look awards show".