A Peacehaven man who claims he was duped into kissing a transsexual for a reality TV show has launched legal action against the programme makers.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is one of six who took part in There's Something About Miriam, filmed in Ibiza in September.

The six men competed against each for Miriam's affections in order to win £10,000 and a week on a yacht with the sultry brunette.

They say they were told to impress "her" by performing macho and romantic acts including intimate massages, body painting, holding hands and kissing.

However, after three weeks of filming they were told the object of their affections was actually a man.

All six men walked out at the end of filming and have now lodged a series of claims against producers Brighter Pictures including conspiracy to commit a sexual assault, breach of contract and personal injury.

The group are also claiming defamation, saying they were unfairly made to look foolish.

Law firm Schillings, acting for the men, is trying to prevent Sky TV from broadcasting the show, which is due to air later this month.

Sky advertised for contestants saying: "Are you fit and up for anything and would describe yourself as a sexual magnet?"

Thousands of men aged 20 to 35 responded and six were picked after psychological assessments.

Rob Christie-Miller of Schillings said: "The men are traumatised by the experience. We've written to Sky and Brighter Pictures and are waiting to hear back from them."