I don't watch Countdown much - though I recall often watching it as a student.  But I was saddened to learn that Carol Vorderman has left the show, especially as it seems her departure has been anything but happy.

She had been a part of that programme since it started, and was, as far as I was concerned, one of the major attractions.  Her legendary brainpower was inspirational and made maths seem sexy.

The show's producers think the show will survive as it did after the sudden death of poor Richard Whiteley.  We will see. Change is often necessary, but it is nice to know some things remain constant in life.  Sadly, even Countdown cannot be relied upon any longer.