'Non-housemates' enter Big Brother house

The 16 contestants taking part in this year's Big Brother have entered the house - but not as real housemates.

Within minutes of them all arriving, Big Brother revealed that no one was yet an official housemate and that they would have to earn their status to remain in the house.

Among the new hopefuls are former Mr Gay UK contestant Charlie, Oxford graduate Freddie, Lupus sufferer Sophia, bisexual Brazilian-born Rodrigo, 18-year-old Floridian student Cairon, glamour model Sophie and out of work Karly.

Completing this year's lineup are self-confessed "girly girl" Noirin, ex-Russian rockstar Angel, 25-year-old virgin Sree, single mum Saffia, former model Kris, window fitter Marcus, events organiser Siavash, former asylum seeker Beinazir and unemployed 41-year-old Lisa.

The contestants were instructed to open a crate in the garden and change into a non-housemate uniform, before returning their own clothes to Big Brother.

Until they individually gain housemate status they will be required to wear the costume and have no access to their suitcases.

All non-housemates were supplied blankets and pillows from the garden case and will spend their first night sleeping on the floor of the house living room.

Those who fail or refuse a task will be left at the mercy of the public, who will decide if they should be granted housemate status.

On Sunday night, the remaining non-housemates will exit the house and be met by Davina during a special live show.

> In pictures: Meet the new BB housemates