Brand and Ross will lose public affection due to swearing

Des O’Connor says Russell Brand and Jonathan Ross will lose the public’s affection if they don’t stop swearing.

The veteran British TV presenter – who holds a world record after having a show with his name in the title for 46 years – insists the secret to his lengthy career is that he doesn’t use foul language.

Asked what he thought about the Andrew Sachs scandal – which saw Russell and Jonathan leaving lewd phone messages for the actor – Des said: “A couple of comedians have, after becoming stars, resorted to effing and blinding.

“What are they doing? They’re going to lose people along the way. Affection will always last a lot longer than admiration.”

Des, 77, insists he has not sworn during his TV career, claiming it would not have made his act any better.

He explained: “In 46 years I think I said ‘widdle’ once. I might have said ‘piddle’ in a mad moment.”

Des also revealed he did not really enjoy his stint as presenter of Channel 4 gameshow ‘Countdown’, which he hosted for two-and-a-half-years, ending last year.

He explained to Britain’s The Sun newspaper: “It was a challenge. There were times you could use your wit – and I wanted to throw in a few more jokes. But the show’s been going for 25 years, it didn’t need me.”