A new BBC NI series will see celebrities visit Northern Ireland's famous north coast to "reconnect with the sea".
B&B By The Sea is a new entertainment series set in a unique coastal hideaway on Downhill Beach, Co Derry.
Despite the tranquil setting, it won’t all be rest and relaxation for the famous faces.
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The 15 part series will be available on the BBC iPlayer after the first episode airs on BBC One Northern Ireland at 7.30pm on Friday 25 November.
The stunning location overlooking Downhill Beach and nestled beneath Mussenden Temple is a place of calm and gives guests a chance to explore their connections to the sea, acquiring new skills and a fresh perspective through a range of activities.
Host Sharon McIlveen, gardener Mary Anne Farenden, driver Rory O’Kane - who has extensive knowledge of the local area - and Michelin-starred chef Alex Greene are on hand to welcome celebrity guests to the B&B.
In episode one, Strictly Come Dancing’s Shirley Ballas is first to arrive at the Victorian guesthouse. Thinking she will be able to take a break from her hectic schedule, the Queen of Latin is quickly put to work on a pig farm in Bushmills and learns how to make pottery.
Novice cook Shirley also slips on her apron to help chef Alex whip up a delicious meal for guests using the best of local produce.
In episode two, Dragons’ Den investor Deborah Meaden has a unique connection to the sea which makes this a very personal visit for the TV star who has never visited Northern Ireland - or cooked a meal - before.
The next visitor to the B&B is television presenter and renowned Maître d' Fred Siriex who has worked in some of the world’s best hotels and restaurants.
Fred is keen to lend his hospitality skills to the B&B team and is set an important challenge to find the best local tipple to compliment a special custard. He also visits the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery and tests his sausage-making skills with a local butcher in Portstewart.
Later in the series, TV legend and Northern Ireland native Gloria Hunniford is back on home soil to meet an award-winning flock of sheep in Macosquin and to help Alex in the kitchen with a spot of baking.
Other guests include football legend Neil Razor Ruddock, former soap stars Nina Wadia and Adam Woodyatt and Hollyoaks actor Richard Blackwood.
B&B By The Sea is made by Afro-Mic Productions with support from Northern Ireland Screen.
The series, a co-commission with BBC Daytime, will also be broadcast to audiences across the UK in the New Year.
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