Andi Oliver Replaces Prue Leith On The Great British Menu Judging Panel

Andi Oliver Replaces Prue Leith On The Great British Menu Judging Panel
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The Great British Menu has revealed Saturday Kitchen regular Andi Oliver will replace Prue Leith as a judge on the hit show.

Leith made her last appearance on the BBC Two cooking programme on Friday night's series finale.

Oliver, who is also a panellist on Radio 4's The Kitchen Cabinet, will join current judges Matthew Fort and Oliver Peyton when the programme returns next year for its 12th series.

She said: "I couldn't be more thrilled to be joining the judging panel of the Great British Menu.

"It's such an iconic programme and I have watched it religiously from the very beginning.

"I love that it celebrates the extraordinary levels of culinary excellence in this country, so being part of that and having the chance to taste some truly incredible food from the best chefs in the country is hugely exciting. Who wouldn't want to do this job?"

Upon her departure Leith said appearing as a judge had been a "huge pleasure" and called on Oliver to "keep Matthew and Oliver under some sort of control".

She added: "From the first Great British Menu for the Queen's 80th birthday to honouring those who fought on D-Day, I've been repeatedly amazed at the inventiveness and skill of the chefs.

"I am very proud of the banquets we've put together. However, with 11 banquets under my belt in more ways than one, I think it's time for a change and, with much hesitation, I've decided to relinquish my seat in the judging chamber.

"I'm sure Andi Oliver will be terrific."

Friday night's episode made history as the Palace of Westminster opened its doors for the first televised banquet to be held in the House of Commons Members' Dining Room.