Chef and author Prue Leith is a contender to replace Mary Berry as a judge for The Great British Bake Off (GBBO).

Leith’s agent, Hilary Knight Management Ltd, has confirmed to British Baker that she is among those being considered for the role on the show when it relaunches on Channel 4 this year.

“She is a contender, but no way have we been given the green light that it is happening and we know that there are various others being considered as well,” Hilary Knight, MD and owner of the company told British Baker.

“I think that she has been slightly under the radar compared to some of the bigger names that had been spotted as they went for their shoot, but that’s all I know.”

Knight added that Leith was currently on a long-planned week’s holiday.

Leith co-founded and later sold the Leith’s School of Food and Wine, and is the author of cookery books and novels. She has experience of judging culinary shows after appearing on the BBC series of the Great British Menu followed by Best of British.

GBBO is seeking a new judge after Mary Berry stepped down from her role following the announcement in September 2016 of the show’s move from the BBC to Channel 4.

The show is also looking to replace presenters Sue Perkins and Mel Giedroyc, who also stepped down.

British Baker has contacted GBBO producer Love Productions, which has yet to comment.