TOWIE to introduce new stars for second series

'The Only Way Is Essex' will return to ITV2 on March 20.

The reality series, which has made stars out of Amy Childs, Mark Wright and Lauren Goodger, will feature a whole host of new characters in its upcoming second season, and hunky Mark hopes fans will continue to enjoy watching their wild antics.

He said: "It's brilliant that viewers really seemed to warm to the show. The fact that it's been a success is amazing."

"I am just privileged to be a part of it and very thankful to those people who watched the first series and hope they enjoy the new series."

Ravishing redhead Amy - who was catapulted to fame following the success of the first series - admits she has grown up since season one, as she can now watch herself on TV without cringing.

She explained: "When I saw myself for the first time on television I cringed, but I'm sure most people would. Now I'm a bit more used to it, I just laugh at myself."

In the first season of the show - based on the concept of US TV show 'The Hills' - viewers saw Mark and rival Kirk Norcross engage in a boxing match and various members of the cast fall in and out of love while visiting some of Essex's most glamorous night spots.