FELLOW Castaway Joe voiced fears that Erica Hurst's "crush" on him could lead to something more serious during last night's episode of the BBC3 reality show.

Erica, aged 22, from Kearlsey, had previously insisted that despite their close friendship, nothing would happen between the pair during their 12 weeks on New Zealand's Great Barrier Island.

But Joe told Clare - his companion during an enforced five days of segregation from the main group - he thought Erica's feelings were stronger than she was admitting.

"If I had been in this hut with Erica, I think I would have had to build a divide across the shack because I don't want to snog anybody," said Joe.

"I'm not suggesting that's what would have happened, but that's what I fear might have done."

Erica's husband of six weeks Matt Williams, aged 24, from Lostock, laughed off Joe's claims.

He said: "Erica's a friendly girl and my mates say she's touchy-feely but if he thinks he's got a chance then good luck to him because he'll have me to answer to!

"I know Erica wouldn't do anything. Joe obviously thinks a lot of himself."

Despite this, ratings for the show have reached new lows.

The third episode last night had just 2.4 million viewers - down from 2.9 million the previous week and 4.1 million for the launch show.

It has also attracted criticism over its claims that the 13 are cut off from the real world. According to reports, Great Barrier Island has a population of 700, a curry restaurant and an Irish pub.