Holmes has been with GMTV since it began in 1993

"After 22 years as a broadcaster, 10 of them at GMTV, one has a sense of where one belongs, and GMTV have reassured me that together we're a team."

Children

His current contract with the breakfast broadcaster would have ended in six weeks.

Holmes has three children from a previous marriage, while girlfriend Ruth Langsford gave birth to his son Jack in February.

"We have reached an agreement whichg helps me spend the time I need to in Belfast with my children and family, whilst taking into account the time I need with baby Jack and Ruth in London," he said.

"When my children are off school I shall be with thm and that makes all of us very happy, contented and excited about the next three years."

'Unique'

GMTV managing director Paul Coreley said he was "delighted" to have completed the deal with Holmes.

"Eamonn has a unique ability and a huge popular following. He brings great warmth and humour to our output as well an ability to handle anything that is thrown at him," he added.

The deal is thought to be worth a six-figure sum each year.

Holmes began his broadcasting career at Ulster Television, and hosted the ITV company's nightly news programme at the age of 21.

In 1986, he launched BBC One's daytime line-up by presenting phone-in show Open Air, before becoming a sports presenter on Breakfast News.