Alex Jones has paid tribute to her The One Show co-host Matt Baker after he announced he is quitting the programme.

The Welsh presenter, 42, described Baker, 41, as “a consummate professional, a terrific broadcaster, a great friend” in a post to Instagram on Thursday.

Jones said the former Blue Peter star’s presence on The One Show’s green sofa would be difficult to fill.

She wrote: “It’s been a joy and a privilege to share the green sofa with you @mattbakerofficial over the last 9 years.

“It’s flown by and I’ll always treasure the time that we’ve had together.

“You are a consummate professional, a terrific broadcaster, a great friend and I’ll miss you and your little quirks immensely come the Spring.

“It’s not over yet though. We’ll both be back come January to wish everybody a Happy New Year.”

BBC Countryfile Live 2018
Presenter Matt Baker (Steve Parsons/PA)

Jones also shared a selection of photos featuring the pair.

Baker, who joined The One Show in 2011, announced his departure during Wednesday’s instalment of the BBC One programme.

He said he will continue his presenting roles on Countryfile and BBC Sport, but is “looking forward to having dinner with my family and being able to put my kids to bed”.