Steph McGovern has made an emotional speech to mark her last ever episode of Steph's Packed Lunch as the show has been axed by Channel 4.
Former BBC business reporter Steph, 41, has hosted the lunchtime chat show for three years, but earlier this year it was announced that the programme was being cancelled and would air its last episode in December.
As Steph was joined by some of the show's regular guests, including Kate Bottley, Chris Kamara, Simon Rimmer, Russell Kane and Marcus Brigstocke, the Middlesbrough-born journalist paid tribute to the show as a "Northern power house".
She said: "Today is our last show so we have got everyone here. Today is a proper family affair.
"It is really lovely to have you all here and everyone watching at home. One of the reasons I have loved doing this show is because it is in the North. We get to shout out about all the creative things the North has to offer.
"It has been amazing to broadcast live from Leeds everyday. We have talked a lot of about the North, South divide, whether that really exists. what it means for jobs, transport and wealth and a lot of that being so London-centric. I want to celebrate the North today.
"It's been a decade we've been talking about the Northern power house. It exists in this studio, but there's so many parts of the North there."
Steph looked festive in a red sequinned suit for the show and before it began she posted a photo of her microphone and cue cards to Instagram, writing: "For one last time……. today 12 – 2.10 @packedlunchc4 on @channel4. My cue cards, my earpiece and my microphone."
Denise Van Outen, one of the show's contributors, commented: "It’s just so sad. Best show! Gutted it’s over. Love you so much. Have a blast today. Queen"
Carol Vorderman, who stood in as host once, added: "Have the best show ever Steph. I know I'm not part of the team, but hosting that one day everyone was so incredible, I felt as though I'd been there forever. You're the best and I'm sending huge love"
Janette Manrara added: "Absolutely gutted it’s the last one, but enjoy it fully! Yourself and the team have made a wonderful show that brought smiles and joy to many. All my love to the whole team"
Michelle Visage wrote: "Have the best show of ALL," while Ferne McCann commented: "Have the best last show," Ryan Thomas added: "Love you all," and Susanna Reid wrote: "Have a phenomenal show."
Giovanna Fletcher commented: "Sending everyone so much love! What a show. I always loved my time up in Leeds and the work we created out of the studio tackling brilliant subjects. A welcoming and fun environment, always! Xxx"
Dragon's Den star Sara Davies wrote: "Send my love to all the team on an outstanding job done!" and Greg Rutherford added: "Gutted to see it end. Thank you for having me involved. Have a brilliant final show xx"
Former EastEnders star Kacey Ainsworth wrote: "LOVE THIS SHOW gave us a completely alternative daytime show have a great last show I’ll miss it!!"
Other celebrity fans who offered their support on Instagram included Gemma Atkinson, Russell Kane, Alex Jones, Candice Brown and Vicki Pattison.
Steph launched the show in 2020 during lockdown, originally broadcasting from her own living room before later moving to the studio in Leeds.
When the show was axed in October, Channel 4 explained: “Steph has not only made the nation’s lunchtimes more entertaining and brilliantly reflected the views and pre-occupations of the country, but the show has also been an outstanding springboard for developing local talent behind the scenes.
"With audience habits changing quicker than ever, we have to make difficult decisions about which programmes to invest in to best drive our digital-first strategy and we have decided not to recommission Steph's Packed Lunch when its existing production contract ends in December 2023."
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