An ITV synopsis for the programme, which debuts on Tuesday, February 10, reads: “This epic new adventure reality series sees brave contestants embark on a thrilling journey to reach the peak of one of New Zealand’s most spectacular mountains whilst carrying the cash prize they hope to win.

“14 strangers from all walks of life come together to face the daunting challenge of climbing a mountain in the breathtaking, rugged Alps of New Zealand’s south island

“The adrenaline-filled series sees them face the ultimate test of strategy and resilience as they compete for a share of a potential £200,000 prize.

“With just 14 days to reach the summit, the contestants have to navigate treacherous terrain, wild conditions and overcome extraordinary challenges – set by the mysterious Mountain’s Keeper – that block their path to the peak.

“But it isn’t just a test of physical strength; strategy plays a crucial role, as the cast will also have to eliminate their competitors along the way.

“Who will forge alliances? Who will betray? And ultimately who will have what it takes to conquer the mountain and claim the prize?”

Speaking to GB News and other media about the show, Mr Shephard reflected on the way in which each contestant is initially given a significant sum of cash to carry around with them on the hike, with the possibility of the money being lost if the contestant doesn’t make it to the next stage.

“So I think what’s really compelling about the money being tangible is that it’s always there,” the presenter pointed out.

“It’s always something that they know. And it becomes a character, like the Mountain’s Keeper, the money becomes a character within the whole adventure, because they can feel it.

“So when they get to a base camp and someone gets voted out, their money gets put into the cash bag that they’ve got to then carry up, as long as they remember to carry it..”

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ITV

When quizzed about his cryptic comment, Mr Shephard continued: “You would think you wouldn’t forget it, considering there’s tens of thousands of pounds in there, but I’m just going to leave that there…”

Mr Shephard didn’t elaborate on who makes the costly error, but it’s bound to create disastrous consequences given the contestants’ time limit.

Meanwhile, viewers are eager to find out more about Afton McKeith’s performance in the show.

The 25-year-old is the daughter of Scottish TV personality Gillian McKeith, and is somewhat used to being in the limelight, having also dated Brooklyn Beckham.

While she was described in The Summit as being “a diva,” Mr Shephard shared his true thoughts on her.

“She’s just so honestly herself and really unashamed about it, and rightly so – they didn’t know she was Gillian McKeith’s daughter, like no when they hit the mountain, none of them knew anything about each other.

“They don’t know that Warren’s a former Gladiator. They don’t know about Joel, who is currently in the Winter Olympics for the Jamaican bobsleigh team.

“They don’t know Miranda is a landlady until she has to get them going. They don’t know about Charlett, you know, being a pole instructor, having done Ninja Warrior in the past as well.

“They don’t know anything about each other. So what they know is what they experience then and there.

“And I think Afton is very unaware of actually just how histrionic and loud and opinionated she can sound, but also actually how brilliant she is in that sort of situation.”

The eight-part series debuts on Tuesday, February 10 on ITV.