Blue Peter adds Skelton to team

Skelton will replace Zoe Salmon and Gethin Jones

Helen Skelton is to be Blue Peter's latest presenter when the long-running children's show returns in September.

The 25-year-old Newsround presenter, who used to be a host on BBC Radio Cumbria, has also been an extra in ITV's Coronation Street.

Skelton from Kirkby Thore, near Penrith, Cumbria, has also worked as a waitress, barmaid and in a shop when she was a student.

"I am absolutely thrilled to have been chosen," she said.

"It's a dream come true to get the best job in telly and to join the series in its 50th anniversary year is a massive honour."

I laughed out loud when I read myself described as a Wag. That's going to give everyone I know a right laugh Helen Skelton

She will replace Zoe Salmon and Gethin Jones, who both left the long-running show in June.

Skelton, whose boyfriend is Hamiton Academical footballer David Graham, laughed off press reports calling her a WAG.

"I laughed out loud when I read myself described as a WAG. That's going to give everyone I know a right laugh," she said.

Her brother Gavin plays for rival Scottish Premier League team Kilmarnock.

"I've been a big footie fan since I was little so I am far more interested in playing sports myself, Blue Peter always gets its presenters to take on big challenges and I can't wait to have a chance to have a go," she added.

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