Patrick Kielty to host his first Late Late Toy Show

Expect song, dance and some moments sure to pull on the heartstrings as the chaos and cuteness of a much-loved Irish TV staple returns to screens this Friday.

And if you’re the praying type, put in a good word for the presenter.

New host of the Late Late Show Patrick Kielty will this week host his first Toy Show, the programme’s annual Christmas spectacular where children are invited into the studio to test run the year’s hottest toys.

Speaking to viewers on last week’s show, Kielty described it as “another dream come true”.

“I actually get to host the show that I watched as a wee fella with my mum, my dad and my brothers,” he said.

“Say a prayer for all on board as I try to hold it together and to all the kids who are going to be watching and to all those let loose in the studio,” Kielty added.

Traditionally the country’s most-watched television programme, The Late Late Toy Show marks for many in the Republic of Ireland and further afield the start of the Christmas season.