Phillip Schofield's replacement said it was a "dream come true" to host the British Soap Awards.
The ceremony was originally set to be fronted by the former This Morning host. However, the 61-year-old stepped down when he quit ITV after he admitted having an affair with a younger male colleague.
Jane McDonald was announced as Mr Schofield's replacement for the glittering event at the Lowry Theatre. The former Loose Women star was a hit with fans as she won praise from a number of soap stars.