BBC political correspondent, Craven born Chris Mason has been announced as the next host of BBC Radio 4’s Any Questions? - and he’s on a mission to bring an episode to the Dales.

Chris, a former Ermysted’s Grammar School boy who comes from near Grassington, will replace Jonathan Dimbleby, who stepped down in June after hosting the programme for 32 years.

“Crikey, from Grassington to the Any Questions hot seat, I can’t believe it,” said Chris. “And being asked to take over from Jonathan Dimbleby — incredible. When Jonathan started presenting the programme I was wobbling all over the road doing my Cycling Proficiency Test at Linton Falls. And, come to think of it, I’ll probably be feeling pretty wobbly on my first night sitting in what has been his chair for so, so long.”

Any Questions? is Radio 4’s weekly debate programme which every Friday evening sees a panel of people from the world of politics, media and elsewhere answer questions on the biggest topics of the week from an audience in a different part of the UK.

In addition to being political correspondent for BBC News, Chris sometimes presents BBC Breakfast and on Radio 4, he has presented programmes including The County Vs The City and Could The PM Have A Brummie Accent?’ He is one of the hosts of the podcast and television programme Brexitcast.

Mohit Bakaya, controller of Radio 4, said: “Chris is a first class political correspondent and, for some years now, his ability to interpret and explain the complexities of what’s happening in our fast changing political landscape has made him one of our most trusted and insightful journalists.

“He approaches Westminster with the eye of an ‘outsider’ which makes him well placed to connect with audiences around the country. As we face another period of political uncertainty, Any Questions? and its role in giving people the chance to ask questions of our politicians is as vital as ever. It was a presenting role sought after by a number of brilliant broadcasters that I have the highest regard for. I’m delighted Chris is the new host.”

Chris will present Any Questions? from Friday, October 18.