Jones, with actress Zoe Lucker, was 2003 Bachelor of the Year

The 26-year-old will become the show's 31st presenter when he takes over from Simon Thomas at the end of April.

He has been a presenter of children's progammes for the Welsh language channel S4C.

Jones, from Cardiff, only the second Welsh presenter in Blue Peter's 47-year history, said: "I am so excited, this really is a dream come true."

Thomas announced his departure last week saying he wanted "fresh challenges" after six years with the programme.

I've wanted to present Blue Peter ever since I was a viewer myself Gethin Jones

Viewers of S4C will recognise him from children's music show Popty and the weekly live programme Uned 5.

Jones said of his new job: "I am so excited, this really is a dream come true."

The keen rugby player and footballer is the long-running show's 31st presenter and 15th male presenter.

Viewers will see him in his new role for the first time on April 27, just before he flies off for the show's annual summer expedition with the rest of the team.

Do you remember these presenters? (answers at the foot of the story)

His early Blue Peter challenges will be filmed next month and include visiting Vermont, flying with the Red Arrows and competing in extreme winter sports events.

Jones said: "I am so excited, this really is a dream come true.

"I had my first audition a few months ago and the waiting has been unbearable!

"When I got the job I spent several days thinking I must have been imagining it and that I hadn't really got the job after all.

"I've wanted to present Blue Peter ever since I was a viewer myself and I can't wait to get stuck in."

Blue Peter editor Richard Marson said: "Gethin impressed us all with his warmth, his understanding of the audience and his passion for Blue Peter.

"We think he'll fit in brilliantly and we're really looking forward to putting his many talents to the test over the next few years."

Jones follows Wrexham-born Tim Vincent as the second Welshman to become a Blue Peter presenter.