Walsh "thrilled" with new Five show

Kate Walsh has claimed that she is "thrilled" to be working on nightly magazine programme Live From Studio Show.

Five has confirmed that the Apprentice runner-up will co-host the early evening news show with Ian Wright and Melinda Messenger.

"The three hosts have been hired for their smart, witty opinions and their common sense approach to the big stories and talking points that have caught the public's attention for the hour-long show," a source told DS.

The programme, which is being produced by Sky News, will launch in September.

Channel controller Richard Woolfe said: "This is news - but not as you know it. It's a chatty, forthright spirited magazine. Ian, Melinda and Kate have warmth and attitude - they are a high energy, up front, breath of fresh air.

"For the first time on British TV presenters will be passionately discussing news events and expressing their no-holds-barred opinions in a way that reflects the way we all interact and react to the biggest stories of the day."

Woolfe added: "Every other broadcaster's schedule at this time is totally predictable and I believe there's a huge opportunity for a show like this which will shake things up, put Five on the map and get viewers talking about the channel."

Speaking about her new role, Walsh said: "Becoming part of the presenting team on the new show is an exhilarating and thrilling challenge - and I love a challenge! I can't wait to get stuck in to daily live TV, and the show promises to be a totally new way of reviewing the day's news.

"Ian and Melinda are both consummate professionals and great fun, and I'm looking forward to bringing a bit of me to the personality of the show."

Former footballer Ian Wright said: "Melinda and Kate are great girls and I love the banter we already have. I struggle to get a word in when those two get going!"