Image caption Oliver left the UK to work as a writer on The Daily Show in 2006

British comedian John Oliver has quit The Daily Show to front his own weekly talk show on cable channel HBO.

Following a successful stint covering for Daily Show host Jon Stewart, Oliver is leaving Comedy Central to present a new Sunday night news show from 2014.

"When we saw John Oliver host The Daily Show, we knew his singular perspective and distinct voice belonged on HBO," said the network's Michael Lombardo.

Oliver said he was "incredibly excited" adding, "I presume I get free HBO now".

Oliver stood in for Stewart for three months this summer, while Stewart was directing his first film.

His performance went down well with both critics and audiences, maintaining strong viewing figures in the all-important young male demographic encompassing men aged 18-34.

Stand-up

"I want to thank Comedy Central, and everyone at The Daily Show for the best seven and a half years of my life," said Oliver, who joined The Daily Show as a writer in 2006.

"But most of all, I'd like to thank Jon Stewart. He taught me everything I know. In fact, if I fail in the future, it's entirely his fault."

Oliver first came to public attention in the UK as a stand-up comedian on the festival circuit.

He currently has a recurring role on NBC's cult comedy Community as a psychology professor, as well as hosting a stand-up series on Comedy Central.

He and long-time collaborator Andy Zaltzman co-write the weekly satirical podcast The Bugle.