Maxwell taken in by Big Brother scam

Maxwell began busily sorting the creatures into coloured jars only after Vanessa ran from the task in tears.

Big Brother had secretly installed a workhouse beside the diary room and housemates were told to choose a numbered locker from 1 to 10, inside which was their numbered hat and clocking in card.

Vanessa initially chose number 1 so was installed in room 101, but she was unable to deal with the maggots.

When she ran off Big Brother asked for volunteers to take her place, and Maxwell stepped up.

It means he will be required to complete a shift each day in the workhouse while Vanessa will rejoin the rest of the housemates who have been told the truth.

Maxwell will be left believing that they will be in the same boat and in order to complete the week’s task they must maintain the pretence.

They have also had a children’s party laid on for them with a bouncy castle, a chocolate fountain, an ice cream machine and a garden full of sweets.

As Maxwell began his chores, Anthony announced the truth behind the game scam with barely-concealed giggles.

“I actually feel sorry for him... not!,” he said.

And Vanessa, instead of feeling guilt that by leaving room 101 she had landed Maxwell with the grim task, squealed with delight when she discovered the treats Big Brother had in store for everybody else.

“I actually feel like I’m in heaven,” she giggled, in between stuffing mouthfuls of goodies.

Meanwhile, Channel 4 has announced that it has signed up for two more series of the reality TV show.

A new deal between the broadcaster and Endemol, inventors and producers of Big Brother, will take it through to 2007.

The previous contract between the two was for four years and expires at the end of this year.