..alongside ex-crickete Andrew Flintoff

Paddy McGuinness is to co-host the new series of Top Gear with former cricketer Andrew Flintoff.

The comic and the former England captain will start filming the 27th series of the BBC Two show early next year.

They will join Chris Harris, the former racing driver, who currently presents the show with former Friends star Matt LeBlanc and journalist Rory Reid.

LeBlanc announced  he was leaving the job in May saying its ‘time commitment and extensive travel... takes me away from my family and friends more than I'm comfortable with.’

 Rory Reid will also no longer have a main presenting role, although the BBC says he will continue to be involved in the programme.

McGuinness said: ‘Getting the Top Gear gig is a real honour and I'm thrilled the BBC have given me this opportunity. To be hosting a show I've watched and loved from being a small boy is beyond exciting.’

Phoenix Nights star turned Take Me Out presenter McGuinness  previously fronted Stars in Their Cars for the Travel Channel.

Published: 22 Oct 2018