Mary Berry won the hearts of the UK and Ireland with her gentle and constructive criticism, warmth towards contestants and general loveliness on the Great British Bake Off. As we all know, Bake Off’s acquisition by Channel 4 causes a major shake up in the cast line up with all but Paul Hollywood pulling out of the show.

Mary declined Channel 4’s offer to carry on with the beloved series and swearing allegiance to the BBC, as did presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins. While there has been no confirmation on the presenter front, there has been much speculation that the decision on who will fill Mary’s judging role has been made.

While whispers that our own Rachel Allen would land the role were widespread, recent reports suggest it is Prue Leith, a Cordon Bleu trained chef, who will fill Mary’s shoes. Prue is a veteran Great British Menu judge and no stranger to the camera or delving out culinary critiques. Prue’s glittering CV includes opening the famed Leith’s Cookery School in 1975 and a Kensington restaurant of the same name.

Leith is also a highly respected food writer, having worked as a cookery correspondent for the Daily Mail, The Sunday Express and The Guardian. Prue also penned a number of best selling cookery books including Leith’s Cookery Bible and Leith’s How to Cook. At 76, Leith is the same age as Mary Berry was when she took up the role of Great British Bake Off judge, and certainly has the experience to back up her selection.

What do you think of Prue Leith taking the reigns from Mary? Would you prefer to see Rachel Allen judging Great British Bake Off or is there a food figure you feel is the perfect person for for the job? Let us know by tweeting us @thetaste_ie with #GBBO.