An Oldham restaurant has announced it is taking part in the new Channel 4 show Come Dine With Me: The Professionals.

The Old School BBQ Bus, based on Alford Street in Hollinwood, announced on social media on Wednesday, June 15, that it would be appearing in the first week of episodes.

Representing the eatery on the show will be director Mark Fairley and head chef Dawn as they compete against other restaurants in Greater Manchester.

In a video posted online Mark said it was "an amazing experience to be part of" but added it was "gruelling" due to the long days of filming.

Mark went on to add it had been "surreal" to have had the opportunity to compete.

He explained that the restaurant decided to apply when they saw it being advertised and were accepted to take part.

The show will take on a similar format to the classic Come Dine With Me, with each episode seeing three independent restaurants competing to be crowned the best restaurant in their area.

There will also be a cash prize to be shared amongst the staff.

Each restaurant will be represented by a team of two who will look to impress their counterparts.

According to Channel 4, the dinners will take place during a normal service, so the visitors will have the chance to see the atmosphere, the food and the service.

At the end of each meal, the visiting restaurant pairs will score the evening out of 20 with the highest scorers overall scooping the prize. 

Come Dine With Me's iconic narrator David Lamb will be bringing the voiceover.

The Old School BBQ Bus has been open since 2016, when a Bluebird International American school bus from Arizona was imported and became their mobile kitchen.

The unique restaurant serves traditional American barbecue food and often hosts live music and comedy events.

The show itself will begin airing on Monday, June 27, with The Old School BBQ Bus appearing on Friday, July 1 at 5pm.

In the video on social media, Mark said the restaurant will be having a live viewing which people are welcome to attend.