The BBC has confirmed that the new series of The Graham Norton Show will begin as planned early next month.

With the UK now in lockdown due to the spread of the deadly coronavirus, most TV productions have halted filming for the immediate future.

In a statement issued today, however, the BBC confirmed that it would be proceeding with the next series of the flagship Friday night chat show, albeit with an adapted format.

The corporation said: "Graham Norton will be back on Friday nights - not quite as usual, but still featuring the biggest stars and the best stories, including the famous Red Chair - now relocated to the comfort of your own armchair at home. From Friday 10 April."

The BBC has yet to confirm how the new format will work, although the most likely scenario would see Norton host either from his home or an audience-free studio, with celebrity guests featuring via webcam.