There's good news for fans of Escape to the Country as a new series is officially underway.

One of the show's property experts,Nicki Chapman, took to social media to announce the news as the BBC star shared some behind-the-scenes shots on set.

She captioned her Instagram post: "We are back! So excited. Filming a brand new series of @escape_country - starting this week in glorious Cheshire. The 5-bar gate lean has returned.

"Need our help? Go on... Why not apply online to bbc.co.uk/takepart, and we could be helping you fulfil that dream of a new life in the countryside or by the coast?

"We would love to help you discover the most beautiful parts of the UK, show you gorgeous villages & market towns, walks & bridle paths to explore, secluded coves & sandy beaches... the list is endless & we know where they are (well most of them!) plus some stunning homes too."

Nicki told her followers that the programme would love to hear from people who are keen to relocate their lives.

It wasn't long before people commented on the post, with many thrilled with the announcement that the property show is returning to screens once again.

One person said: "Can't wait. You're always such a breath of fresh air, by the way." Someone else wrote: "My favourite program. Watched every single episode at least once."

Another viewer shared: "Welcome back!!" While one person commented: "Love love love the show. Can't wait to see the new episodes."

When someone shared their hopes for Alastair Appleton and Jules Hudson to also return to the show, Nicki confirmed they were 'all back'.

Nicki is one of the longest-serving presenters on the BBC programme, having joined the cast back in 2009. One star who has no plans of leaving anytime soon is Sonali Shah, who has been part of Escape to the Country for 12 years.

Speaking about her longevity on the programme, she told DevonLive: "Never did I think that I would be on a show like this for 12 years. You never think you're going to be in any job for 12 years, right?

"But I think it's one of those things, the same reason why people love it as part of their daily lives is kind of why."

She added: "Every time I think, oh, should I go and do something else? It's like, no, actually, this is the best job in telly because I get to help someone find a home."

Escape to the Country is available to watch on BBC iPlayer