Anita Rani and James Martin received a mixed reaction from viewers after presenting This Morning together for the first time, with some branding them “wooden” and “unwatchable”.

Anita and James will present ITV’s flagship daytime show on Fridays, with regular couple Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford taking over for the summer on Mondays to Thursdays.

In an eventful debut as hosts, a crow relieved itself on its owner.

Celebrated chef and TV personality James Martin (Hannah McKay/PA Wire)
Celebrated chef and TV personality James Martin (Hannah McKay/PA Wire)

In a segment titled “My pet crow thinks I’m its mum”, guest Vikkie Kenward told Anita and James about the close relationship she has with the bird she rescued.

During the conversation, Anita asked if the crow is toilet trained.

Vikkie replied: “Most of his toilets are outside, but he does have the odd accident.” Shortly afterwards, as if on cue, the crow used its owner’s arm for a call of nature.

Countryfile presenter Anita Rani
Countryfile presenter Anita Rani (BBC)

On his Instagram page, celebrity chef Martin shared a photo of the crow and thanked viewers for their support.

“Never thought a crow would be on @itvthismorning. Thanks for watching, hope you liked the grub,” he said.

Other guests on the show included Mrs Brown’s Boys star and creator Brendan O’Carroll and EastEnder Harry Reid.

Anita and James did win some fans on Twitter, but a good deal of the comments were not complimentary.

James and Anita are a no-no

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