The BBC confirmed earlier this year that its new reality show The Traitors will return for a second series after its huge success.
And there's still a few weeks to apply for the TV series.
Unfamiliar with what The Traitors actually is? Heard the named of the show being banded around, but haven’t had the chance to watch it? Based on the premise of a popular Dutch show, the UK version of The Traitors sees 22 of the “most cunning contestants” play the ultimate murder mystery game of deception and suspicion.
The first series of the reality competition show was an undeniable smash-hit when it aired on BBC One back in late November 2022.
A small group of contestants become the titular ‘Traitors’, and must work together to eliminate the others contestants, while the remaining contestants become ‘Faithful’ and are tasked with discovering and banishing the Traitors by voting them out – with both groups battling it out to win the grand prize of £120,000.
🏰 The Traitors series two is OFFICIALLY coming!
Think you could be the next Maddy Marple? Or go totally undetected in a glorious hooded cloak with @ClaudiaWinkle?
The first series went on to be viewed over 34 million times on BBC iPlayer, with an average of 5.4 million viewers for each episode across all platforms.
So it’s no surprise that the BBC would want to bring it back for more, right?
The broadcaster confirmed that The Traitors and its host Claudia Winkleman are to both return for a second series, with filming set to begin in the near future and members of the public who fancy taking part now encouraged to stick an application in.
BBC renews The Traitors for second series and you can apply to take part / Credit: BBC
“I can’t wait to go back to the castle to watch people play the greatest game on television,” Claudia Winkleman said ahead of the new series, “I’m knitting a high funnel sweater immediately.”
The Traitors is described by the BBC as being a game of “trust and treachery”, but do you reckon you have what it takes to play the ultimate game of detection and backstabbing?
If you’re up for it, applications are now open and you can apply on the BBC website here.
The closing date for this application is noted as Monday 31 July 2023.
There's a gothic hall in the heart of the Peak District where you can enjoy a staycation with a difference - because it's completely TV-free.
Get ready to cosy up by the fire while soaking up everything this screen-free property in the Peak District has to offer.
This two bedroom, three bed gothic hall looks out onto some stunning views through its unique framed windows.
If you're up for a stroll, this staycation has many popular walking routes to the unique village of King Sterndale, Cheedale Stepping Stones and more.
There's a gothic hall in the Peak District that's completely TV-free / Credit: Airbnb (supplied)
Only 10 minutes from Buxton and 15 minutes from Bakewell, this historic property is the perfect location for anyone wanting to explore more of Yorkshire.
Pictor Hall has a gorgeous landscape that can be enjoyed simply by opening the front door with an abundance of foliage and greenery surrounding the property.
And if you're still worried about the idea of being stuck without a TV, the Airbnb host has noted that the property has a variety of board games, books and free wifi.
Although, with Pictor Hall dating back to the 1700's, you'll probably spend a considerable amount of time gawking at all the impressive features and characteristics throughout.
Pictor Hall is an impressive 1700s property where you can have your own Yorkshire staycation / Credit: Airbnb (supplied)
There's striking wooden beams, a vintage writers' desk, tables with old-timey carvings etched into the side, an array of big clay pots and a carved log that greets you upon arrival.
Previous visitors to this property have commented on Pictor Hall's "peaceful location", listing it as "amazing spot for a woodland getaway" and labelling the property as a "storybook cottage".
If you're up for staying in this gorgeous gothic Airbnb property while also having a mini digital detox, you can find out more and book your stay HERE.
Struggling to book a date? It's probably because our whole office is scrambling to enjoy their own staycation in this gothic hall.. sorry not sorry.
Much loved Leeds restaurant serving authentic hand-pulled noodles closes suddenly
Clementine Hall
After quietly serving some of the city's best hand-pulled noodles for years, Noodlesta has closed its Leeds restaurant.
Located opposite the University of Leeds on Blenheim Terrace, Noodlesta built a loyal following thanks to its fresh, hand-pulled noodles, rich broths and no-frills approach to dining.
For students, office workers and serious noodle fans alike, it became a go-to spot for comforting bowls packed with flavour.
But unfortunately, Noodlesta has closed its doors for good with an alcohol license for another venture being plastered on the windows.
Image: The Hoot Leeds
The restaurant first opened in Leeds in 2019 and quickly earned a reputation for serving some of the city's most authentic Chinese hand-pulled noodles.
The braised beef brisket noodles and the tomato with egg thin noodles were some of the best we’ve had in Leeds, and at around £12 a bowl it was brilliant value for money.
No official reason for the closure has yet been confirmed, although the news comes at a time when hospitality businesses across the UK continue to face rising operating costs and challenging trading conditions.
For Leeds food lovers, Noodlesta's closure marks the end of a dining experience that was difficult to find anywhere else in the city.
Its handmade noodles and authentic flavours will be missed by many who considered it one of Leeds' hidden culinary gems. We wish them all the best in the future.
The Hoot -
28th June 2023 
