Escape to the Country signs Olympic legend, Loose Women star and Countryfile host for new celebrity series

BBC One announced the return of Celebrity Escape to the Country this December, featuring a pop sensation and a former winner of The Apprentice.

The star-packed spin-off builds on the success of the classic property show, promising even more rural glamour and celeb surprises.

BBC One has announced the return of Celebrity Escape to the Country this December, featuring Olympic champion Linford Christie OBECredit: Channel 4

Broadcaster and author Anita Rani will feature in an episodeCredit: Getty

Along with Loose Women star Kaye AdamsCredit: RexThis year’s series stars Olympic champion Linford Christie OBE, musical legend Alfie Boe OBE, broadcaster and author Anita Rani, pop sensation H from Steps, renowned journalist Kaye Adams and The Apprentice winner and entrepreneur Tim Campbell MBE.

The one-hour long episodes takes the celebrities on an exploration beyond their usual urban limits as they look to find their perfect country home.

They will explore the joys and challenges of finding the ultimate rural retreat, whilst celebrating the beauty of the British countryside.

Each episode will not only showcase the idyllic property market, but also the personal stories behind each celebrity’s decision to make the big relocation to the quiet of the countryside.

This comes after last year’s series peaking at nearly 3 million viewers.

It starred Dr Ranj Singh, Chaser Jenny Ryan, Christopher Biggins and Strictly couple Janette Manrara and Aljaž Škorjanec.

The show is set to continue its success with new celebrity faces and new rural locations.

Julie Shaw, Daytime Commissioner comments: “Our homes are central to our sense of belonging, and finding a new home is one of the biggest decisions any of us will ever make, famous or not famous.

“This series we get an insight into the celebrities, their careers and their families, essentially the journey they’ve been on from where they began long before the cameras and spotlights.

“We cover the UK, including the beautiful hills and valleys in the Vale of Glamorgan and Stirlingshire, helping people to escape from world-famous cities like Glasgow and London – it’s a magical tour around some of the UKs most beautiful homes.”

Rob Unsworth, Head of BBC Daytime and Early Peak commissioning comments: “Last year’s Celebrity Escape to the Country was a real Christmas treat so we are delighted to bring it back for a second series.

“We’ve a brilliant line-up of much-loved familiar faces, with a unique insight into their personalities as they hunt for a potential new home.

“And who doesn’t want a sneak peak into what could soon be a celebs living room?!”

Fans are in for a treat this December as H from Steps joined the line-upCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk

And Tim Campbell MBE will also be part of the star-studded spin-off seriesCredit: PACelebrity Escape to the Country series two returns Thursday December 12 at 8pm on BBC One.