We're delighted - the figures are beyond our own predictions and we're sure the show will go from strength to strength

Channel 5 spokesman

A Channel 5 spokesman said: "We're delighted - the figures are beyond our own predictions and we're sure the show will go from strength to strength."

The show's 1800 slot drew 13% of viewers. The station's overall share of viewers for the day was 8% - its best Monday figures and up on the previous week's 4.4% share.

The arrival of Home and Away on Channel 5 had been heavily promoted.

At the centre of the campaign was an eye-catching poster, featuring the back view of members of the teenage cast in beach wear.

And in celebration of the soap's switch, the channel is showing a season of Australian-themed shows.

Global

Channel 5 snatched the rights to the show from ITV last year.

A clause in ITV's original contract meant the network could delay transmission by another broadcaster, forcing the soap's 12-month absence.

The soap began in January 1988 and was screened by ITV as a rival to the BBC's Australian soap Neighbours.

It was developed by Channel Seven - which also made Neighbours - after the channel decided to drop Neighbours because of poor ratings.

Home and Away is shown in about 50 countries is thought to have a global audience of about 60 million viewers.

The programme will be shown every weeknight at 1800 with a repeat at 1230 each day and an omnibus on Saturdays.