A POPULAR radio DJ has been chosen to fill Bob Holness’s big Blockbusters boots.
Simon Mayo will present the new series of the popular quiz show, which recently deceased Pinner man Bob Holness presented from 1983 until 1994.
Although the show has been brought back a number of times, Mr Holness will always be associated with the show which has gained a cult following since the 1990s.
The former TV personality and friendly host died peacefully aged 83 on January 6.
Mr Mayo, who presents the Drivetime show on BBC Radio 2, is currently filming the new series and it will be screened on Challenge TV in the spring.
Ros Holness, Bob’s daughter, said: “We wish him all the best. I know when Michael Aspel presented it Bob wrote him a letter wishing him luck and I know Bob would have done the same for Simon.”
The original programme only took contestants of school age and won a cult following among students, but the new one, which is being produced by Thames, is only open to people over 18.
Ms Holness, who worked for her father as a PA, said: “I think it is a shame it is not aimed at children at a time when they get such a bad press. It would have been a perfect time to have kids from inner cities and private schools together being shown they are worth a shot and to be given a chance.
“Bob was so proud of the fact that it was aimed at kids and showed that they weren’t all bad and could achieve such wonderful things.”
Simon Mayo said: “Blockbusters is an iconic show and a winning format. I feel very honoured and excited.”
Ms Holness said: “It is keeping Bob’s memory alive in such a wonderful way.
“I have been watching the re-runs and it has brought back the best of Bob. It was on in the background the other day and I heard Bob talking to the contestants about crystals and one of them asked if he wore one, he said he didn’t but said ‘my daughter does though, and I just want to say hi Ros, if you are watching’.
“It was very emotional, a little bit of Bob from beyond the grave.”
