Virtual Big Brother is unveiled

Gamers will be able to take part in their favourite shows

Big Brother maker Endemol is to launch a virtual world where people can take part in familiar games and shows.

Three dimensional worlds such as Second Life, which allow people to create online versions of themselves, have built up a large following.

Virtual Me will allow these avatars to compete in online versions of Deal or No Deal, Fame Academy and Big Brother.

Endemol and computer game company Electronic Arts said the site would be launched "in the coming months".

Bosses at the two firms said it was a concept that bridged the divide between traditional TV and video games.

"With Virtual Me we are at the forefront of a new, hybrid form of entertainment that takes gaming beyond the console," said Gerhard Florin, Executive Vice President and General Manager of EA International.

"Endemol is a great partner to help us bring together the best of TV and video games for an offering that can appeal to mass market audiences and change the face of entertainment."