MasterChef is back for a brand new series this spring and will see 45 new chefs entering the competition.

The contestants will be hoping to win over judges Gregg Wallace and John Torode in the hope of being crowned this year's champion. 

Series 18 kicks off with nine chefs cooking a signature dish, three of which will go through to the next round.

The other six will need to cook something else before two are sent home.

The series has also seen a major change, which includes the Audition Round. 

Here's everything you need to know about MasterChef 2022.

Who are the contestants for Heat 1 of MasterChef 2022? 

Clive

Age: 50

Job: School facilities manager

From: Chafford Hundred, near Grays

Eddie

Age: 30

Job: Marine pilot

From: Beverley, Yorkshire

St Albans & Harpenden Review: Eddie (BBC Pictures)Eddie (BBC Pictures)

Haylee

Age: 29

Job: Events manager

From: London

Laura

Age: 32

Job: Politics student

From: Bath

Lisa

Age: 39

Job: Cleaning business owner

From: Killearn, north of Glasgow

Paul

Age: 53

Job: Builder (ex police officer)

From: Christchurch, Dorset

Pookie

Age: 45

Job: Beauty salon owner

From: Solihull

St Albans & Harpenden Review: Pookie (BBC Pictures)Pookie (BBC Pictures)

Rachel

Age: 22

Job: Beer bike tour guide

From: Belfast

Rishi

Age: 26

Job: Dentist

From: Pinner, Harrow

When is MasterChef 2022 on TV? 

MasterChef starts on BBC One at 8pm on Wednesday, March 23 and will be available on BBC player.

Episodes two and three will be on Friday, March 25 at 8pm and 9pm respectively. 

Next week, the show will be on Tuesday and Wednesday at 8pm and Friday at 8.30pm.