It used to be hosted by Richard Whiteley until his death in 2005 then by Des Lynam from 2005 to 2006 and then by Des O'Connor from 2006 to 2008 , Carol Vorderman also left the show in 2008 . The program was presented by the late Richard Whiteley for over twenty years , until his death in June 2005 . His position was taken over by Des Lynam , who retired from the show in December 2006 and was replaced by Des O'Connor on 2 January 2007 .