BBC Two is hoping this series will replicate the success of the first

More than 10,000 people applied for the chance to win a �100,000-a year-job with business tycoon Alan Sugar.

The first series was a surprise hit, watched by an average of 2.8m viewers every week.

Last year's winner, Tim Campbell, is now working at Sugar's firm, Amstrad. The Apprentice begins on 22 February.

Brutal

At the end of each of the 12 episodes, Sir Alan dismisses one candidate with the words: "You're fired."

Among the contestants are Michelle Dewberry, 26, a former checkout girl who is now a telecoms consultant.

The programme will also feature Ansell Henry, 34, who used to play for Millwall FC, and management consultant Alexa Tilley, 28, the cousin of Little Britain star Matt Lucas.