A team from the University of Southampton is set to feature on the BBC University Challenge Christmas Special.

The show, which starts on December 23, will see the Southampton alumni compete against other universities to be crowned Christmas champions.

The University of Southampton team is made up of para-rower Ben Pritchard, video game writer and narrative designer Tom Jubert, former Conservative Party MP and cabinet minister Justine Greening, and marine biologist Nathan J. Robinson.

The Christmas special will see 56 distinguished alumni from 14 universities compete against each other in a bid to be crowned Christmas champions.

Amol Rajan, who will be hosting the Christmas special, said: "There is always something magical about the Christmas series of University Challenge, and this year is no exception.

"The contestants are a rather lovely bunch of journalists, academics, politicians and other assorted professionals, all trying desperately to remind themselves of what they've forgotten from their own student days.

"I can't give away too much but we have some wonderful laughs, several thrilling finishes, and a little Christmas surprise that you won't want - or be able - to miss."

Kalpna Patel-Knight, head of entertainment commissioning at the BBC, said: "I’m elated that viewers can once again enjoy the festive magic of University Challenge with Amol Rajan at the helm.

"Viewers can expect an exciting blend of wit and wisdom as our teams compete for the winning title."

Peter Gwyn, executive producer, said: "Christmas University Challenge returns with an exciting array of alumni contestants, from broadcasters and scientists to authors and actors.

"This year’s festive series promises a captivating mix of questions, giving viewers the chance to test their own knowledge alongside our teams as they compete for the coveted Christmas crown."

The University Challenge Christmas series starts on December 23 at 8.30pm on BBC iPlayer and BBC Two.