Jeff Stelling: New host of Countdown

For those not aware, Jeff Stelling is to be the new host of Countdown. The new "Carol Vorderman" is Rachel Riley, an Oxford maths graduate.

For those unaware of Stelling, he is best known as the host of Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports, his huge statistical knowledge of football and for his devotion to Hartlepool United.

Comedy wise, he has some moments. Johnny Vaughan selected Stelling as one of his favourite things on TV in TV Heaven, Telly Hell. Stelling can also be funny at times, such as when he ranted against Middlesbrough being voted the worst town to live in the UK, as seen here.

Story in The Guardian Story on the BBC

Not as hot as Vorderman - I won't be watching...

I'm pretty disappointed overall.

I would have preferred either John Sergeant or Biggins as presenter.

I think they were both approached.

Quote: Ian Wolf @ November 21 2008, 3:28 PM GMT

For those not aware, Jeff Stelling is to be the new host of Countdown. The new "Carol Vorderman" is Rachel Riley, an Oxford maths graduate.

For those unaware of Stelling, he is best known as the host of Soccer Saturday on Sky Sports, his huge statistical knowledge of football and for his devotion to Hartlepool United.

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Monkey hanger!

?

Quote: zooo @ November 21 2008, 4:08 PM GMT

?

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People from Hartlepool hung a monkey they thought was a french spy like 200 years ago - hence why it's a really funny joke to piss my mate off with when I'm drunk

I knew that northerners were a dim lot, but that just takes the piss.

Also, don't Google Image "Rachel Riley". Or, perhaps, do. :/

I think I won't.

Aw, Karl would love that story.

Jeff Stelling is a fantastic choice, he is DA BOMB.

The Southern pensioners and Aaron who watch the show religiously may not know who he is at the moment but as God is my witness you will learn to love him monkey hanger and all.

Quote: Paul W @ November 21 2008, 4:13 PM GMT

People from Hartlepool hung a monkey they thought was a french spy like 200 years ago - hence why it's a really funny joke to piss my mate off with when I'm drunk

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And why the mascot of Hartlepool United is H'Angus the Monkey, who was voted mayor of the town.

Quote: Spagett @ November 21 2008, 5:34 PM GMT

The Southern pensioners and Aaron who watch the show religiously

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Stelling is brilliant on Soccer Saturday. I don't know how he'll fair on Countdown though, it might be a bit dull for him.

Will he be able to present it without talking about football?

I'm sure he'll manage for half an hour.

Quote: Nil Putters @ November 21 2008, 7:07 PM GMT

I'm sure he'll manage for half an hour.

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Actually, the episodes are 45 minutes long.