Another devastating blow was dealt to fans of ‘The Great British Bake Off’ today, as head judge Mary Berry confirmed that she will not be a part of the show when it moves to Channel 4 next year.

The 81 year old baker and TV chef has sided with the show’s co-presenters Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins in refusing to make the move from the BBC at the end of this year, and said in a statement delivered on Thursday (September 22nd) that she was making the decision out of “loyalty” to the show and its home on the BBC.

Mary BerryMary Berry will not be following 'Bake Off' to Channel 4

“What a privilege and honour it has been to be part of seven years of magic in a tent – ‘The Great British Bake Off’,” she said. “The Bake Off family - Paul, Mel and Sue have given me so much joy and laughter.”

Channel 4 announced that it had bid £75 million for three series of ‘Bake Off’, with the BBC only able to offer £15 million – more than double what it has paid for the current seventh series.

More: Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins will not follow ‘The Great British Bake Off’ to Channel 4

“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,” Berry’s statement continued.

“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.”

It comes the day after her co-presenter, Paul Hollywood, was seen sneaking in the back door of Channel 4’s offices in central London for what was reported to be a ‘secret meeting’.

The news means that three-quarters of the current presenting line-up will not be taking part next year, with only Hollywood left to make up his mind whether to remain with the show.

More: Gregg Wallace slams Mary Berry’s comments about deep-fat fryers