BBC Great British Sewing Bee fans praise 'epic choice' after presenter replaced

The Great British Sewing Bee has confirmed the replacement for host Sara Pascoe.

The comedian has been at the helm of three series of the popular BBC competition, following in the footsteps ofClaudia Winkleman and Joe Lycett.

She was temporarily replaced byKiell Smith-Bynoefor the tenth series when she took maternity leave after the birth of her second son.

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However, it's now been revealed that another well-known personality will be taking over for the upcoming series and Christmas Celebrity Special later this year.

TV star and comedian Sophie Willan will join judges Patrick Grant and Esme Young, it has been announced, reports Wales Online.

The actress is best known for her Bafta-winning sitcom Alma's Not Normal, and has also featured in Time and Ludwig and on Taskmaster.

This news comes just days after Sophie was unveiled as a new addition to the RuPaul's Drag Race UK judging panel.

"Welcome your new host of The Great British Sewing Bee... Sophie Willan!" a post on BBC's social media declared.

"The BAFTA-winning comedian, writer and actor will join judges @patrickgrantism and @miss_esme_young and some of Britain's most creative stitchers in a new series on #iPlayer and BBC One next year.

"Christmas? Glad you asked, Sophie's also bringing her trademark wit and warmth to the festive season and hosting the Christmas Celebrity Special later this year."

Fans were thrilled, with one writing: "Oh my god! Yaaay! Literally one of my favourite comedians and favourite shows! I am genuinely so excited for this!"

Another said: "This is an epic choice. I have to say iv loved all the presenter choices for sewing bee. This is exciting stuff!"

A third wrote: "Love Sara but this is an excellent decision."

"Amazing!! I didn't even know Sara was leaving. She has been brilliant though there's never been a bad host of sewing bee," someone else said.

Someone else said: "Yes to this, and yes to being a Drag Race judge, but also please can @sophiewillan run the entire BBC? Cheers."

Cal Turner, Commissioning Editor, said: "We are delighted to welcome Sophie Willan to The Great British Sewing Bee. With her boundless enthusiasm and energy, Sophie will bring her own unique spark to the sewing room alongside Patrick and Esme.

"We'd also like to thank Sara Pascoe for three brilliant series - her humour and charm have been a joy for viewers and stitchers alike."

Tom Davies, Executive Producer Love Productions says: "We are so excited to have Sophie join the Sewing Bee team and we cannot wait to see what she brings to the Sewing Room."

The Great British Sewing Bee final airs Tuesday at 9pm on BBC One and iPlayer.