COUNTDOWN presenter Rachel Riley has been tipped to replace Susanna Reid on the BBC Breakfast sofa The 27-year-old maths wizard could become the new face of the BBC’s flagship morning show, it has been rumoured.

The former Southend High School for Girls, pupil from Thorpe Bay is said to be ready to try her hand at something new, according to a TV insider, and could take up the role alongside veteran presenter Bill Turnbull.

BBC bosses are said to have been impressed by Oxford graduate Rachel, who presents Channel 4’s tea-time favourite Countdown and the Gadget Show on Channel 5.

Last year, Susanna Reid took part in Strictly Come Dancing, where she was up against Rachel, who was another contestant on the 11th series of the show.

Along with Rachel, BBC presenter Louise Minchin and Channel 5’s Emma Crosby, who used to present GMTV, are also said to be potential