'The Farm' to return on May 9

Five has confirmed Monday, May 9 as the launch date for the second series of its rural-themed reality show The Farm.

The programme was a strong ratings performer for the network when it first aired last year, reaching a peak audience of over 2 million.

The new series, which is being fronted by makeover duo Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan, will air for one hour each night at 10.30pm, half an hour later than the first series.

The duration of the show is also being shortened to eighteen days to avoid a clash with Channel 4's Big Brother, which begins on May 27.

The identities of the participating celebrities are expected to be revealed next week.