Finally...a celebrity spin-off that works!

THE GOLDEN rule of modern television seems to be there isn’t a successful format that can't be ruined by an “all-star” spin-off series.

- with GARRY BUSHELL

KEEPING THE FAITH Stars of The Celebrity Traitors gather, before the killings begin

Look at Celebrity Mastermind, an odious oxymoron of a show, full of unrecognisable dullards with the IQs of garden gnomes. At least Pointless Celebrities is honestly titled.

But The Celebrity Traitors could be the exception to that rule.

The 19-strong cast rattling around Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands are mostly well-known - and Celia Imrie qualifies as a bona fide national treasure.

Despite obvious flaws - the contestants already have the measure of most of their rivals, and aren't motivated by a burning need for a cash - the format's inherent strengths keep it watchable.

It started with Jonathan Ross, Stephen Fry et al digging their own graves - a delicious metaphor.

They were greeted by hostess Claudia Winkleman and her iconic fringe at a mock cemetery. In her knee-high boots and cape, Claudia is far better at setting the right pseudo-dramatic tone than camp bore Alan Cumming.

Ted Lasso actor Nick Mohammed helped Celia dig her grave for an immunity shield. But paranoia kicked in quickly. Was he a genuinely decent man or was it a calculated ploy?

Claudia then picked her traitors - Jonathan Ross, brilliant songbird Cat Burns, and a very nervous Alan Carr. The comedian is about as discreet as Nell Mangel and as innocent as a Chinese spy.