Mary Berry has decided to leave the Great British Bake Off but Paul Hollywood will stay and move with the show to Channel 4.

In a statement, Mary said: “It has been a privilege and honour it has been to be part of seven years of magic in a tent – The Great British Bake Off. The Bake Off family – Paul, Mel and Sue – have given me so much joy and laughter.

“My decision to stay with the BBC is out of loyalty to them, as they have nurtured me, and the show, that was a unique and brilliant format from day one. I am just sad for the audience who may not be ready for change, I hope they understand my decision.”

She added that she wished the future programme, its “crew and future bakers” well. “I am so very sad not to be a part of it. Farewell to soggy bottoms.”

Last week presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins decide they no longer wanted to be part of the show when it moves to Channel 4 and announced they were quitting next year.