Blue Peter announces its 40th new presenter

Blue Peter has announced that Northern Irish YouTuber Adam Beales is to become its 40th new presenter.

Beales, from Londonderry, will co-host alongside Lindsey Russell, Richie Driss, Mwaka Mudenda, and Henry the dog.

The 20-year-old said he was “super excited” to get started on the long-running BBC children’s TV show.

In May, Mudenda was unveiled as the show’s latest presenter from her own home, due to lockdown restrictions.

“I am humbled and ecstatic to be part of such a legendary production,” said Beales, whose first show will air on Thursday 3 September.

“It’s kind of weird – in a super exciting way – that the show I once watched when I was younger, is now the show I will be presenting along with the talented Lindsey, Richie, Mwaksy and of course, Henry.”

He added: “I can’t wait to get stuck in, even with the challenges they throw at me, though I am hoping none of them involve cheese – I hate cheese!”