A former Sir John Lawes media studies pupil is to become the newest Blue Peter presenter.

Harpenden man, Richie Driss, will be the 38th to host the show alongside co-star Lindsey Russell and Henry, the latest Blue Peter dog.

Sir John Lawes head of media Emma Smyth said: “Congratulations to Richard. It is great to have ex-students showing how media studies at A-level can lead to real life success as a professional in the business.”

Richie attended Roundwood Park for the rest of his subjects.

Richie, 30, said: “To say that becoming a Blue Peter presenter is a dream come true doesn’t even begin to describe it. To be named presenter of the longest running children’s television programme in the world is a far bigger achievement than I ever dreamt possible.

“I cannot wait to get started and follow in the footsteps of the 60 years of iconic presenters who have worn the famous Blue Peter badge before me.

“I am going to give it my all, no matter what the job throws at me.”

The presenter has already started filming for the programme and has completed his very first challenge - singing with The Kingdom Choir in front of a live audience.

Richie previously worked as a presenter and producer for Joe Media, where he fronted weekly broadcasts interviewing Hollywood A-listers and taking on challenges such as commando training. He then landed his dream job on Blue Peter.

Matthew Peacock, acting editor of Blue Peter, said Richie stood out at the auditions because he wasn’t fazed by anything they threw at him. Matthew said he is sure Richie will be popular with fans of the show.

Head of BBC children’s in house productions Helen Bullough said: “Richie has that Blue Peter can-do attitude that has inspired so many generations of children and which still remains at the heart of the show today.”

After leaving school, he went on to study film and television at University of Wales, Aberystwyth, before eventually ending up in local radio and launching his own series on GRM Daily.

Blue Peter is live on CBBC every Thursday at 5.30pm and Richie’s debut show is on May 16.