'The Great British Bake Off' will run for 75 minutes per episode.

Paul Hollywood

Paul Hollywood

The popular baking show was snatched by Channel 4 in a mega-money deal late last year and, although fans were initially worried that the regular breaks would mean that the programme would be much shorter than the BBC version, bosses at the network have confirmed that they've decided to keep the content to an hour long.

A spokesperson for the show said: "We have always promised viewers that they would not be short-changed on the show, even though we are an ad-funded channel. The programme will run for 75 minutes to allow that."

Not only have producers made a conscious effort to keep the running time the same as the BBC but they've also decided to keep some of the show's main format elements.

Sources have claimed the theme tune, as well as the filming location of Welford Park in Berkshire, will remain the same so as to keep loyal 'GBBO' fans from switching off.

An insider said previously "While Channel 4 are keen to put their own stamp on the show, they are not trying to reinvent the wheel.

"They want to attract new legions of Bake Off fans, but also don't want to dishearten those loyal viewers who have been watching it for years and are planning to keep doing so despite the change in channel.

"Viewers will get the familiar tent set-up, in the beautiful grounds of Welford Park, and the same theme tune they've been hearing since it was first launched in 2010."

And, although the theme tune and filming location are staying the same, loyal fans will still have to make some room for change as Paul Hollywood will be the only returning member of the hosting team.

Previously, Paul appeared as a judge on the show and was joined by Mary Berry, whilst presenting due Mel Giedroyc and Sue Perkins took on hosting duties.

Now, Paul will be joined by Prue Leith, and the show will be hosted by Noel Fielding and Sandy Toksvig.

Shooting for the new series of 'The Great British Bake Off' is set to start later this month.

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