Dancing On Ice to get Friday show

Dancing On Ice is to be given a primetime Friday night preview programme when it returns in January, according to the papers.

The Sun reports that the 30 minute show will see the contestants preparing for Sunday's programme - and ITV bosses are hoping it will give a boost to their Friday night schedules.

The cash-strapped channel is also hoping that the new show will help gain advertising revenue.

The X Factor - ITV's other big reality TV hit - will also be on twice a week when it returns on August 22.

"We're really keen to capitalise on the success of Dancing On Ice - and the new show is seen as a great extension," an insider told the paper.

"It will give fans all the news and gossip from the week of training. We've yet to decide on a host, but Philip Schofield, Holly Willoughby, Torvill and Dean and the judges will appear."

Show bosses are also searching for a new judge to replace Ruthie Henshall after she quit.

The 2009 series was won by singer Ray Quinn.