Gordon Brown found time to pay tribute to Konnie Huq as Blue Peter’s longest-serving female presenter signed off after a decade of shark diving and scandals.

Ms Huq, 32, outlasted Valerie Singleton on the BBC children’s show. A career in “grown-up” television awaits. She is already the host of an ITV current affairs show.

As the senior presenter, Ms Huq apologised to children last year after Blue Peter admitted faking a charity phone-in competition winner. She was also required to explain why producers had ignored the result of a poll to name the new Blue Peter cat.

Ms Huq’s highlights since joining in 1997 included swimming with sharks in the Bahamas.

Tony Blair invited her to Downing Street for his farewell interview. Her last show concluded with a recorded tribute from Mr Blair’s successor.

Mr Brown said: “Konnie, thank you so much. You’ve done brilliantly.”

The Prime Minister followed tributes from Basil Brush, the irrepressible fox, and Matt Lucas, the actor.

Ms Huq told viewers: “It’s been the most brilliant ten years. It’s the best job in the world. I’m gutted to be leaving.”

Blue Peter presenters have struggled to make the transition to adult television. Lesley Judd and John Noakes, favourites in the 1970s, pursued other careers. Peter Duncan, who appeared nude in a film before joining the show, forged a new career with the Scout Association. Richard Bacon, Ms Huq’s ex-boyfriend, bounced back from his sacking for using cocaine to forge a radio career.

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