Dan Walker wishes Alex Scott luck as he hands over 'Football Focus'

Dan Walker has wished Alex Scott good luck as she prepares to take over from him on Football Focus.

The presenter announced in April that he was stepping down after 12 years on the programme, saying that while he had "loved every second" it was time for someone else to take the reins.

Saying goodbye on Instagram, Walker said it had been his "dream job."

He said Scott - the first permanent female host of the show in its 47-year history – would be terrific.

“Football Focus was my dream job & being able to do it for 12 years was an incredible privilege," he said.

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The presenter – who is now heading off to the Strictly dancefloor – added: "A new chapter starts this weekend and I want to wish my friend @AlexScott all the best in the chair.

"She has a great team around her and I’m sure she’ll be brilliant."

Many fans posted messages on social media saying that Walker would be missed.

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"Alex will be fine, she knows her stuff and does her homework. Thanks Dan and all best for next ventures," one person tweeted.

"Alex was amazing during the Olympics so we know it is in the best hands!" said another.

"Good luck Alex and also to Dan for Strictly!"

DIY SOS star Nick Knowles posted: “Great stint - brought a lot of humour, empathy and humanity into the show, magnanimous hand over. Classy.”

Presenter Nihal Arthanayake wrote: “You've got dance moves and the right combination of spandex and sequins to be thinking about my man.

“End of an era and the beginning of a new one for the brilliant @alexscott2.”

Watch: Dan Walker is stepping down from Football Focus