Channel 5 have today announced that Emma Willis will be the new presenter of both Big Brother and Celebrity Big Brother on the station.

The news means that former Big Brother winner Brian Dowling has lost his position at the helm of the show. Irish presenter Dowling fronted the show for two years, following its move from Channel 4. 

Willis has been involved with the show since 2010 also, most recently fronting Big Brother’s Bit on the Side. 

The 37-year-old, who is married to Busted’s Matt Willis, said: "I am thrilled to have been offered this job.  I’m a fan first and foremost so to be able to front the show is going to be amazing.  Roll on the summer!”

Dowling will be replaced by Willis as the host of the reality TV show

Ben Frow, Director of Programmes at Channel 5, said "Emma is a natural on screen, she’s made the spin off show her own and now the time is totally right for her to step up.  I know she’ll take Big Brother to the next level and I can’t wait to see her dealing with the housemates both famous and soon to be famous.  I’d also like to thank Brian Dowling for doing such a sterling job over the last two years. He’s been a big part of the success of the show and I wish him the very best. ”

Frow was Director of Programmes at Irish television station TV3 until late 2012. 

Dowling has yet to comment on the news.