May the force be with me

Ex-detective contestant hoping to crack the case as The Traitors kicks off

- BY TOM BRYANT Assistant Editor (Showbiz)

The Traitors bosses have assembled the most impressive crack team of contestants so far - including a retired detective chief inspector, a barrister turned crime writer and a psychologist.

Insiders believe the unique makeup of the 22-strong group will ensure the fourth non-celebrity series - which kicks off tonight, hosted by Claudia Winkleman - will be the most competitive ever.

One BBC exec said: "Given the crime-solving attributes of some of those picked, it might make the job of being a Traitor much harder. But at the same time such qualities could equally make them the perfect Traitor so it's very much all to play for."

Former police detective chief inspector Amanda admits skills she gained in the force could give her a distinctive edge.

The 57-year-old from Brighton says she learned a lot about being deceptive, devious and cunning in the job.