Beat The Chasers return date confirmed and it’s a lot sooner than expected

It has been confirmed that Beat The Chasers, the popular spin-off of Virgin Media quiz show The Chase, will be returning to our screens during the first weekend of the New Year.

Earlier this week, Jenny Ryan AKA The Vixen told fans that series two of Beat The Chasers would be coming soon and to watch this space. It has now been confirmed that the spin-off will be returning to our screens as early as Sunday, January 3. The news was announced by ITV this morning, with the first show kicking off at 9pm on the aforementioned date. Back in the spring, when Beat The Chasers aired for the first time, it was screened here in Ireland simultaneously on Virgin Media One. https://twitter.com/itvpresscentre/status/1337050968123461632 Last month, new Irish chaser Darragh Ennis AKA The Menace made his debut on The Chase and when he was asked by a follower this morning if he'll be appearing on Beat The Chasers, he cryptically replied 'you'll have to watch it to find out.' There will be seven episodes in the new series, running from Sunday, January 3 until Saturday, January 9. If you're not familiar with the Beat The Chasers format, all will be explained again by Bradley Walsh upon the return of the new series. If you can't wait that long, the new version basically takes the numerical advantage away from the contestants and gives it to the Chasers. Contestants answer up to five multiple-choice questions in the cash builder round in a bid to reach £5,000 before they are faced with a decision that will make or break their chances of going home with some money.

Still confused? Have a look at the clip below from the last series...

Definitely something to look forward to during that wind-down stage after the madness of Christmas and New Year. Bring on the Chasers! READ NEXT: President Higgins explains lovely message behind Christmas lights across the grounds