Mary Berry is leaving Great British Bake Off

Stop all the clocks: Mary Berry has announced she will be leaving The Great British Bake Off.

The national treasure has been in talks with new provider Channel 4, but announced this morning she will be leaving the show for good.

In a statement posted online, she said: “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,” she said in a statement.

“What a privilege and honour it has been to be part of seven years of magic in a tent.

“I am just sad for the audience who may not be ready for change, I hope they understand my decision.”

It is still not yet known if Paul Hollywood will stay with the show, after being pictured entering the Channel 4 offices for a “secret meeting” yesterday.

Of her leaving, Berry said: “The Bake Off family – Paul, Mel and Sue have given me so much joy and laughter.

“I wish the programme, crew and future bakers every possible success and I am so very sad not to be a part of it.

“Farewell to soggy bottoms.”