Filming on the new series of The Only Way Is Essex got back underway yesterday after a coronavirus-enforced production shutdown.

The 26th series of the ITVBe reality series had been due to begin in March, with initial episodes set in Tenerife, but the shoot was scrapped as Europe entered lockdown.

This would have been followed by a 27th series in September, but producers are now thought to be working on a super-sized 26th series that will incorporate the highly-anticipated 10-year anniversary episodes in October.

Paparazzi pictures showed the cast filming new scenes on Monday, with Tom McDonnell seen leading Kelsey Stratford and Ella Rae Wise on a workout session in an Essex park and fan favourite Olivia Attwood spotted playing tennis at a Brentwood court.

Dan Edgar, Pete Wicks and Diags also returned to filming with scenes set on a golf course.

The production has been restarted with new health and safety measures in place, with cast and crew required to undergo temperature checks, wear masks where appropriate and use hand sanitiser frequently.