Find out how Matt became the successful journalist that he is today...
I was born in Chester in 1976, but grew up across the border in North Wales. Following school, I headed south to university in Cardiff. After graduating, I stayed in the city for another year at its Journalism School. I had always wanted to be in London though, so with formal education over and meagre local radio experience under my belt, I managed to land a job at ITN Radio in 1999.
Since then, I've reported and presented at the BBC, on Radio 1 and London News, and on Five News, with a few stints elsewhere. I've also done the odd bit of writing for newspapers and magazines. My career has taken me round the world; from the famine-hit highlands of Ethiopia to Washington DC as America elected its first black president. I've seen the newly-wed William and Kate kiss on the balcony of Buckingham Palace and been watched by the Taleban while embedded with British forces in Afghanistan.
I believe stories make the world go round, and it's a privilege being able to tell them to others. Away from the camera though, they're more of the Gruffalo variety these days, as my wife Katie and I have two young daughters, Manon and Blythe.
What are you most looking forward to about working on Daybreak?
Two things: live interviews and a co-presenter. It's been a while since I've been allowed time to do the former, while I've never had the luxury of relying on the latter - just in case I run out of questions!
Who would you most like to meet/interview that you haven't already?
Paul McCartney. I love The Beatles, and once, on the 20th anniversary of John Lennon's death, I was dispatched to Abbey Road, where Macca was recording, to try get a soundbite from him. After hours waiting in the lobby of the famous studio, mic in hand, he gave me the slip by sneaking out the back.
Who is the most memorable celebrity/personality you have ever met and why?
Having covered a decent number of sport, showbiz and royal stories, I've asked questions of everyone from Al Pacino to David Beckham, and even answered a couple from the Queen. Three genuine stars. The funny thing is that some of the most memorable people have been those who think they are stars when they're not - without naming names!
If you weren't a presenter what would you be doing as a job?
When I was 16, I began the process of joining the Royal Marines. I got past interviews, and a week's taster at the Commando Training Centre before realising it wasn't really for me. If it had been though, I could now be in Afghanistan in a very different capacity.
Are you a good morning person?
Could you ask a more loaded question? Luckily, yes I am - I have a strong coffee habit and a teething ten month old to prove it.
Who would you choose to play you in a film version of your life?
Friends of mine will gleefully tell you how I've been confused with Gary Barlow on occasion, usually after a particular short haircut, so I guess it should be him. It would have to be a musical though, obviously.
Tell us one fact about yourself that we'd be surprised to learn?
I can't get through a year without a decent physical challenge - running the London Marathon, cycling the Etape du Tour (a mountain stage of the Tour de France) and this year, riding 315 miles in three days from London to Paris. All suggestions welcome!