Great British Bake Off: Paul Hollywood is new favourite to replace Chris Evans on Top Gear following Channel 4 move

The public expect the renowned car fanatic to remain with the Beeb in a very different role

Keen racer Paul Hollywood at the Formula One Grand Prix at Silverstone (Getty Images)

It was announced earlier this week that The Great British Bake Off is departing the BBC for Channel 4 and that Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins are stepping down as hosts.

Channel 4's acquisition of the Love Productions show has sent the British viewing public into meltdown; the baking series - currently in its seventh year - is one of the UK's most popular, its most recent episodes racking up an impressive 10 million viewers.

The status of GBBO judging stalwarts Paul Hollywood and Mary Berry is currently unknown, but the former is being tipped to remain with the Beeb in a very different role: Chris Evans' Top Gear replacement.

Considering he's a car fanatic, Hollywood - whom pledged his allegiance to the channel - could well be eyeing the opportunity in a bid to revive the lacklustre reception received by the revamped version of the flagship motor series upon its return earlier this year.

Hollywood clearly knows his stuff having previously fronted one-off car show License to Thrill; he's also a renowned amateur sports car racer.

This would also see him make good on his suggestion of a charity car race with Top Gear co-host Matt Le Blanc.

Since the acquisition was announced, various past contestants have spoken out against the move to Channel 4, including last year’s runners-up. Meanwhile, the current series of Bake Off will continue to air every Wednesday on BBC One.