GREAT British Bake Off judge Mary Berry has announced she is quitting the show.

She said it was out of "loyalty" to the BBC, which lost the broadcasting rights in a recent bidding war with Channel 4.

The three-year deal won by Channel 4 is reportedly worth £10m more than what was offered by its rival. 

In a statement this morning, Ms Berry said: "What a privilege and honour it has been to be part of seven years of magic in a tent – The Great British Bake Off.

“The Bake Off family, Paul, Mel and Sue, have given me so much joy and laughter.

“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.

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

“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.”

Her decision follows the shock announcement by hosts Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins to stay with the BBC.

Along with Ms Berry and Paul Hollywood, they proved an unbeatable recipe for viewers with episodes screened on the BBC regularly bringing in 10 million viewers.

But the show is now set to move to Channel 4, with fans preparing for a whole host of new faces.

Bake Off queen Christine Wallace, from Didcot, has said she was "saddened" by the move. 

The 2013 quarter-finalist said: "I don't think it will ever be the same when it is interrupted by adverts."

Charlotte Moore, director of BBC content, welcomed Ms Berry's decision, which comes after days of speculation about whether she will move.

She added: "Mary is an extraordinary woman, loved and adored by the British public, and the BBC is her natural home.

"I've been very lucky to have had the pleasure of working with Mary over the last seven years and I'm so pleased that relationship will continue.

"She is an inspiration to generations, a real icon and I can't wait to cook up more unmissable shows with her in the future."