Despite the clear tragedy of ITV's Splash - one of the slackest examples of live television for some time - Tom Daley is dusting off his little speedos for another go at television.

This time, ITV1 have entrusted him with presenting a travel series in which he visits countries including Thailand, Japan, Australia, Morocco and New Zealand with his best pal Sophie Lee. You know, Sophie Lee.

Daley - the new Michael Palin - will stay in hostels and take overnight train journeys as part of the six-week programme Tom Daley Takes On The World which producers describe as a "typical student backpacking trip."

Oh, and to make it that bit more interesting there's going to be some challenges, like bungee jumping. And Saturdays star Mollie King will turn up for a bit.

Daley said: "I can't wait to get away on my trip. Diving and training are my first love, but I am looking forward to a break from the norm and discovering more about places I've never had the chance to explore before. And to do it all with my best friend will be amazing."

The Olympic diver finished sixth in the individual 10m platform final at the world diving championships in Barcelona last month. 

In light of that sixth place finish, ITV director of digital channels Angela Jain said: "Tom's career as a diver has captivated the nation.

"We hope this show will give people the chance to see the teenager behind the trunks as he enjoys his global backpacking adventure."

Tom DaleyTom Daley At The BRIT Awards

Tom Daley
Tom Daley Is Going Backpacking for ITV