'Junior Apprentice' gets second series

Junior Apprentice will return to BBC One for a second series, it has been announced.

Lord Alan Sugar's search for a young business star will start again in autumn 2011, helped once again by Nick Hewer and Karren Brady.

Next year, the reality show spinoff will be extended to eight episodes, having aired only six for its launch series.

Lord Sugar commented on the recommission: "Following the first series I have had a brilliant reaction from young people in response to the show.

"They will be delighted that the Junior Apprentice is coming back and with a longer run. I'm passionate about giving young business talent the chance to step up and this show is a great platform."

Meanwhile, the BBC's controller of entertainment commissioning Mark Linsey said: "The first series of Junior Apprentice showed that there is plenty of passion for business among our young people.

"I'm delighted that yet more budding young entrepreneurs are going to get the chance to prove their worth and learn about business from Lord Sugar."

Junior Apprentice debuted this year to respectable viewing figures. Arjun Ragyagor won the first series title.