Matthew Wright has decided to leave Channel 5’s weekday current affairs programme The Wright Stuff after 18 “glorious” years.

Wright has hosted the topical chat show since it began on 11 September 2000 and said he has chosen to leave for new challenges.

He said today: “After almost 18 glorious years on Channel 5 and with the show flying high in the ratings, I feel it’s time to depart and try my hand at something new.”