Wightlink passengers were left starstruck after a beloved British comedian delivered a comical live announcement while filming part of his new series onboard the FastCat service.

Have I Got News For You panellist and comedian, Paul Merton, surprised Wightlink staff and passengers when he hopped aboard the FastCat service from Portsmouth to Ryde as part of his new Channel 4 series - Paul Merton: Driving Amazing Trains.

Comedian, Paul Merton, surprised passengers on Wightlink's FastCat service to film Driving Amazing Trains for Channel 4. | Wightlink

placeholder image — Comedian, Paul Merton, surprised passengers on Wightlink's FastCat service to film Driving Amazing Trains for Channel 4. | Wightlink

Arriving in Portsmouth by train, the 68-year-old, who is a lifelong rail enthusiast, joined Captain Parahovniks on the bridge to deliver a live welcome announcement, bringing his trademark humour to the service.

Paul Merton said: “This series isn’t just about locomotives, it’s about history, engineering, and the joy of train travel. For me, it’s also a way to connect with my dad’s legacy on the rails. I can’t wait for viewers to come along for the ride.”

The new six-part series, which will air at 8pm on Thursday, April 9, will see the treasured comedian take the wheel of some of the world’s most iconic locomotives, with Wightlink’s appearance highlighting the seamless rail-to-sea connections the UK has to offer.

Paul Merton Visits Wightlink to film Driving Amazing Trains for Channel 4.

Pictured: Paul Merton — Paul Merton Visits Wightlink to film Driving Amazing Trains for Channel 4. Pictured: Paul Merton | Paul Merton

Louise Lea, PR and brand manager at Wightlink, said: “We loved having Paul and the Channel 4 team travel with us. The connection between rail and sea at Portsmouth Harbour is perhaps something people take for granted locally, so it was a pleasure to highlight this gateway from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight to a national audience. Seeing the reaction from passengers when he made his announcement from the Bridge was a highlight for all of us.”

Paul’s passion stems from his father, who was a train driver on the London Underground, sparking a lifelong fascination which is now taking him on an adventure across the UK and Europe, where he will meet the inspirational people who keep the railway running.

Deborah Dunnett, commissioning editor, Channel 4, added: “It’s a real privilege to join Paul on his heartfelt journey, while also experiencing dazzling landscapes and the ever-joyful railway community along the way.”