Guinness World Record for Countdown after 32 years

The show was presented by Carol Vorderman and the late Richard Whiteley for over 20 years. Credit: Yui Mok/PA Archive/Press Association Images

TV brainteaser show Countdown has made it into the Guinness World Record books after clocking up 6,000 episodes over 32 years.

The Channel 4 afternoon show has been running since the station launched in 1982 is now into its 70th series.

It's original presenter Richard Whiteley fronted the show for more than 20 years until his death in 2005. His sidekick Carol Vorderman left in 2008 after 26 years.

The award will be presented to current presenters Nick Hewer, maths whizz Rachel Riley and dictionary guru Susie Dent on air for attaining the title of "most series broadcast for a TV game show".

Hewer said: "It is a huge honour to front Countdown, now recognised by Guinness World Records for its longevity.

"Having 32 years under its belt, I am only a novice, coming up to three years on the show.

"But I and the whole team are incredibly proud to be part of such a durable and intelligent format that relies on intellect rather than prize money."

Craig Glenday, editor-in-chief at Guinness World Records, said: "The show - the first ever shown on Channel 4 - has long been a cornerstone of British popular culture, and its 70 series attest to its class, quality and pure entertainment value.

"It's every bit a part of TV time as the cuppa itself, and I'm looking forward to its next 6,000 episodes."

Watch Carol Vorderman's last day on the show here: