Byker Grove alumni and ubiquitous Geordies-for-hire, Ant and Dec, are set to front Nintendo UK’s “biggest ever” entertainment campaign.

The oh-so cheeky chappies are surely getting their hands dirty on the whole project too, starring alongside actual members of the unwashed British public in a series of TV adverts, and even getting involved in game development. Now that we just gotta see...

But first things first, and the pair will be out and about challenging Nintendo fans and families from across the country and asking them such probing questions as “why they enjoy Nintendo so much”. Cabbies will be quizzed about how Brain Training keeps them sharp, weight-watching ladies will be cajoled about the use of Wii Fit in their health and efficiency routine (we’re guessing: pick it the Balance Board, put it back in the box, put the box under the stairs...) and that sort of thing. By all accounts there’s a national recruitment drive on right now, with the ads themselves kicking off on October 16th.

Meanwhile we are not especially surprised to learn that both Ant and Dec are ardent admirers of all things Nintendo. Take it away, boys:

“I have always been a massive fan of Nintendo consoles. I loved my Nintendo 64 growing up. Mario Kart 64 was my favourite,” reveals Ant. “It kept Dec and I entertained for hours during the PJ and Duncan years! Even today when I play Mario Kart on my Wii, I have a lucky steering wheel at home that's only mine to use!!”

For his part, Dec offers: “We’re really excited to be working with Nintendo. The TV shows we make are for the whole family to watch together, and Nintendo make games that the whole family can play together, so it’s the perfect match. The Donnelly family and I are big fans of Wii Sports and I am always challenging my nieces and nephews to games, I especially enjoy trying to get one over on them in an energetic game of baseball!”

And if all the above has not convinced you of the lads’ commitment, here are a few pics of them having a jolly old time with their Nintendo consoles. Dig those crazy catalogue poses...