Paddy McGuinness traces ancestral roots to Mayo in BBC's "Who Do You Think You Are?"

English comedian and television presenter Paddy McGuinness takes a journey back in time to uncover his ancestral roots in the upcoming episode of the BBC genealogy programme, Who Do You Think You Are?

The former host of Take Me Out and Top Gear travels to north Mayo to explore his Irish heritage, delving into the history of his family and their connections to the west coast of Ireland.

McGuinness, born in Bolton has enjoyed a successful career in comedy and television.

However, the comedian's latest project takes him away from the limelight and into the archives, where he uncovers a fascinating story of migration and heritage.

With the help of genealogists, McGuinness discovers that his great-grandmother, Bridget McGuinness, was born in Ballina, along the banks of the River Moy.

This revelation comes after a deeper investigation into his family tree, which revealed that his great-grandfather, William Birtwistle, was actually a lodger with Bridget, leading McGuinness to reflect on the possibility that he might have been a Birtwistle rather than a McGuinness.

In the final leg of his journey, McGuinness visits Ballina to learn more about his ancestors' lives. He discovers that his family were weavers, working in the linen trade, which was in decline in Ireland during the 1830s.

Like many others at the time, the McGuinness family emigrated to the northwest of England, where the textile industry was booming.

They initially settled in Stockport before moving to Bolton, where Paddy was eventually born.

The programme is set to air on Thursday, August 22 on BBC One at 9 p.m.