FOR some people the last nine months waiting for the new series of Big Brother has dragged on.

For others the return of the Channel 4 reality show has come around again all too quickly.

But whether you love it or hate it, there is no getting away from the fact that series seven of the show that made Jade Goody, pictured, famous is now under way.

Last night saw the live launch of the show as the nation was introduced to the housemates for the first time.

There was a mixed response from the Swindonians we spoke to yesterday about whether they will be tuning in or not.

Opinion ranged from one fan who will be travelling up to the Big Brother house, to a pensioner who dismissed it as "rubbish".

The housemates' identity was kept secret right up until presenter Davina McCall led them into the Big Brother house last night.

The new house is smaller and more bizarre than before.

It has been called "inside out" with carpeted garden and grass in the kitchen.

Also, all interior walls are made of clear glass, with the exception of the bath and shower areas. But Channel 4 has introduced a new rule.

"We have told the housemates that if two or more of them are in the bathroom the footage will be screened," explained executive Sharon Powers. "We hope that by having the shower slightly masked, people will be less inhibited in there."