Paul gets Mary vote

MARY Berry has backed Paul Hollywood to keep Bake Off on the boil when it moves to Channel 4.

The kitchen queen is convinced he is the man to ensure it remains a television smash.

Bread expert Paul, 50, abandoned the Beeb last month after the format was bought for £75million.

Loyal Mary, 81, is sticking with the BBC rather than switching channels with the cookery hit.

Hosts Mel Giedroyc, 48, and Sue Perkins, 47, also turned down the chance to jump ship for a big payday.

Speaking at a red carpet bash, Mary said of the new-look version: “It’s going to be different but I’m sure Paul will carry it on successfully.”

Channel 4 are understood to be eyeing up a gay TV baker as a judge. This week we revealed how Aussie Dan Lepard is in line to replace Mary.

But BBC bosses are scrambling to rush out a rival show. A source said: “We could get something on air before Channel 4 starts its Bake Off in 2017.” Mary said she wouldn’t remain with Love Productions’ Bake Off – which she has judged on for six years – out of “loyalty” to the BBC.

Speaking for the first time since the format was sold, she said: “Mel and Sue are brilliant. We had a marvellous time on the programme and that’s how it will remain.

“You’ll never hear people swear – it’s a family programme. Mum, gran, everyone enjoys it and they all get down to baking afterwards.

“I’m proud of everyone. It gets 14million viewers – more than the football!”

The kitchen queen, rumoured to be getting her own BBC show, was not the only star at the National Reality TV Awards.

Strictly celebs Kristina Rihanoff, 39, and Ben Cohen, 38, looked like they were taking parenthood in their stride as they enjoyed a night out.

And former Strictly professionals Ola, 34, and James Jordan, 38, kissed for the cameras.