Holly Willoughby, 42, had taken the reins as This Morning 's lead presenter following Phillip Schofield 's exit earlier this year.

However, following an alleged kidnap plot, the host decided it was time to leave the show "for me and my family".

Now, bookies believe her beloved co-star Alison Hammond will replace her as the main presenter.

BonusCodeBets have made the Great British Bake Off host evens to take over with Josie Gibson trailing behind at 2/1.

Rochelle Humes follows at 10/1 having covered for Holly in the past when she presented I'm A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!

A BonusCodeBets spokesperson said: “Holly Willoughby first began presenting This Morning in 2009 and will now permanently step away from hosting duties on the daytime show, leaving a seat on the blue sofa vacant for a new name.

"Alison Hammond is the current evens favourite according to the bookies, with Josie Gibson next in the betting at 2/1.

“Outsiders for the role include 33/1 shots Davina McCall and Mel Giedroyc, while a return for Ruth Langsford is also 33/1 and Judy Finnigan is 50/1 to make a comeback.”

Holly confirmed her exit in a statement posted to Instagram on October 11, 2023.

She penned: "I have let ITV know today that after 14 years, I will not be returning to This Morning.

"To everyone who has ever worked on the show over the years, thank you so so much.

"This is such a difficult goodbye, you are incredible and I forever will be proud of what we've done together.

"Thank you to everyone at ITV for being supportive. To every guest who has sat on our sofa, thank you.

"Most of all, thank you to the wonderful viewers. You've been so loyal, so supportive and the very best company every day."

She added: "Richard and Judy said 'we only look after this show, it will always belong to the viewers'.

"It's been an honour to just be part of its story and I know this story has many chapters left to go.

"Sadly, however, I now feel I have to make this decision for me and my family. I will miss you all so much."

Holly's colleagues rushed to share their support with Alison commenting: "This is a very sad day! Love you."

Clodagh McKenna added: "Your star will continue to shine everywhere you go. You have given us all so much love and light, in front and behind the cameras. I am so grateful for everything you have given me… I love you so much darling beautiful Holly, the sunshine of our days."

Craig Doyle posted: "We are so supportive of you and we love you to bits, we just wish it didn’t end this way. Its a sad day for everyone."

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