Within weeks of his debut as host of Channel 4's longest running series - and gaining rave reviews from TV pundits - ratings have soared with Nick Hewer at the helm of iconic quiz show, Countdown.
Best known as Lord Sugar's sidekick on BBC's "The Apprentice", this is Nick's first time hosting a show of his own. And, before recording commenced, Channel 4 turned to Glenn Kinsey for help.
Coaching from Glenn
Last October - before Nick was revealed as the new host - the Countdown production team de-camped from Manchester to our London studio to recreate the show, with Glenn coaching Nick in readiness for the programme.
And, after his first recording was broadcast on the 9th January, critics were united in praise for the 67 year-old "newcomer" and ratings have soared from previous lows of 340,000 to 933,000 since Nick has taken over the daily quiz.
Testimonial
In a very kind testimonial, Nick described his first presenting job as "a bit daunting" before going on to say that "Glenn put me at ease and after a couple of hours training, with many invaluable tips, sent me on my way - invaluable help gratefully received".
The training you provided really did make a very clear and major difference
Helen Warner, Channel 4's Head of Daytime, said, "You gave us the outcome we wanted so again, many thanks". And Peter Gwyn, the Executive Producer of the show, said "The training you provided really did make a very clear and major difference".
This year, Countdown celebrates its 30th birthday and past hosts have included the late Richard Whiteley, Des Lynam, Des O'Connor and Jeff Sterling. The programme is an ITV Production for Channel 4.
