IT’S BACK... AND THE MOST TERRIFYING YET

Stars in terror at scariest opening

CAMPMATES tackled the most terrifying challenge ever staged on I’m A Celebrity as filming began.

They had to face their fears as they were suspended 100metres above the jungle floor.

When the new series bursts on to screens tonight viewers will see the stars compete in a task titled The Edge.

The two rival teams started on a perilous cliff edge high above a waterfall at Queensland beauty spot Tanninaba Falls.

They then had to climb along towers, suspended over the drop, and collect flags.

It is the highest challenge ever seen on the ITV reality show.

And bosses piled on even more pressure by making it a race against the clock.

A show insider said: “Producers wanted to make the first task a nail-biting watch. This is the highest one that’s ever been done, so they know it’ll make great telly.

“But it really was a baptism of fire for the campmates. They had to prove themselves even before they entered camp.”

Eight celebs tackled The Edge – Nick Knowles, John Barrowman, James McVey, Harry Redknapp, Rita Simons, Anne Hegerty, Sair Khan and Fleur East. Show staff later described the scenes they witnessed as “barbaric”.

Before entering camp former EastEnders actress Rita admitted heights are one of her many fears.

She said: “I appear fearless, but I am petrified. I don’t like confined spaces, I don’t like bugs, I don’t like heights. And I don’t like being underwater. So that’s everything in the jungle! I’m scared of all of it.”

But other celebs are determined to prove they’re made of strong stuff. The Vamps star James said: “I’m determined to face my fears. I’ve been able to avoid them for years but now’s the time to face them head on.” And actor John said: “I will do my damnedest in challenges to get the stars so we’re not ‘hangry’.”

Presenter Nick said: “In terms of being frightened of things it’s not something that I particularly have a problem with.

“I’m more worried about being scared of something than I am scared of something, if you see what I mean.

“Maybe I’ll find out what my weaknesses are.”

Before the challenge the campmates were warned that only the winners would gain access to main camp Croc Creek.

They were told the losers would have to live in Snake Rock – a camp which was described as “less than luxurious”.

Pop hunk James last night remained the early tip for victory.

Bookies Ladbrokes are offering odds of 4/1 that he will be crowned King of the Jungle.

Emily, John, Anne and Harry are also in the running.

Ladbrokes spokesman Alex Apati said: “There are some huge names heading Down Under this year and as things stand it’s James McVey who heads the betting.”

The series opens tonight with a 105-minute special at 9pm on ITV.