Stars of This Morning swapped their trademark sofa for deckchairs as they filmed live on Brighton beach.

Celebrities including Christopher Biggins, Sam and Mark and Big Brother’s Alison Hammond turned out as the ITV show launched its summer tour of Britain’s top tourist sites.

Scores of passers-by watched as Coronation Street/Dancing on Ice star Danny Young and fitness expert Sara Haley put beachgoers through their paces with a beachside workout in Madeira Drive.

The Mayor of Brighton and Hove Geoff Wells, dressed in full ceremonial dress, and Miss England Katrina Hodge aka Combat Barbie selected the best beach hunk and babe.

The golden bucket and spade were handed to fitness trainer Max Smith, 23 and singer Larissa Eddie, both from Brighton.

Larissa said: “I’m quite impressed really.

I didn’t expect it at all.

Today’s been a fantastic insight into the show and how it all works.”

Hove MP Mike Weatherly said he had declined the opportunity to don his speedos for the live shoot.

This Morning’s roving reporter and star of I’m A Celebrity Christopher Biggins was delighted to be in the city.

He said: “It’s fabulous down here on Brighton beach, especially today. I’ve been to Brighton a lot. People think I live down here but I don’t.”

Agony Aunt Denise Robertson said: “This is a glorious place with wonderful friendly people. You have absolutely everything – sun, sea, seabirds flying overhead, lovely ice-cream. What more could you ask for?”

Sam Nixon of Sam and Mark said: “We have picked a good day – just look at the weather, it’s beautiful.

“It’s a flying visit so we need to make the most of it.”

The event, which was viewed by a shifting crowd throughout the two-hour live session, was also an opportunity for Brighton and Hove’s performers to gain a national platform.

Brighton and Hove (Actually) Gay’s Men chorus performed a stirring rendition of Andy Williams’ The Impossible Dream.

Chairman John Hamilton admitted a few of the choir’s members had to overcome nerves before performing for a TV audience of more than a million.

But he said: “It’s been a fantastic experience.”

Another performer showing off her skills live on TV was 13-year-old Jamie Spall.

The Sir Robert Woodard Academy, Lancing, student is set to represent England in the World Tap Championships in Germany in December and gave This Morning presenter Alison Hammond a crash course in tap dancing.