'The Only Way is Essex' is returning to Marbella.

Chloe Sims

Chloe Sims

Producers on the ITVBe reality show have delighted cast members by going back to basics following overseas jaunts in recent years to the likes of Thailand, Las Vegas, Italy and Majorca, with viewers promised "explosive moments" while the programme is out on location to the popular Spanish resort once again.

A source told The Sun online: "The cast are pleased to return because they love the party vibe and can't wait to let their hair down again.

"Some of the show's most iconic moments have happened there and bosses are hoping to create some more TV gold.

"The last couple of years have seen the gang travel around the world but nothing beats Spain and they can't wait to get filming again.

"The summer special will be back to its best and viewers are in for some more explosive moments that will go down in reality TV history."

But in a break from previous years, the new series of 'TOWIE' won't start with the Spanish special.

The insider explained: "For the first time the Marbella special won't kick off the new series, it will start in Essex and then move to Marbs."

It was revealed last year many cast members were unhappy to be ditching Marbella in favour of a break in Sardinia, Italy, and the likes of show veterans Chloe Sims and Gemma Collins opted out of being involved.

A source said at the time: "They're going to Sardinia in Italy this year, not Marbs, so it's going to be a really different trip this year

"Every year, the cast beg producers to go to LA or Miami or Dubai, so when they heard it was Italy, some cast were furious because they think there are much more fun places to film.

"Only half the cast are going too - even though it's not going to be wild clubbing and nights out, they're all desperate to go!

"Nobody wants to be left at home."