VERNON Kay was given a hard time by The Mirror's telly critic, Jim Shelley, this week over his new Saturday night show, Boys & Girls, the brainchild of Chris Evans.

But Mr Shelley's comments don't bother Bolton model turned TV presenter Vern.

Speaking exclusively to The Gossip, he said: "Look, it's a new show, a new concept and it was the first night.

"Personally I think it went really well. Of course there are a couple of changes that need making -- but that's only natural -- and that is what the team are doing right now, as we speak. I'm sitting down with Chris (Evans) and the others and we're going through things -- just fine-tuning if you like."

Vernon, from Lostock, added: "Chris Evans is brilliant to work with -- he knows the score and knows the business. I'm delighted to be working with him."

Vernon hosts the live Channel 4 game show and, along with sidekick Orla O'Rourke, has to keep 100 boys and 100 girls under control.

It's delivered at a fast and furious pace and even involves the parents of some of the contestants taking part in Parents On Parade -- last week a couple frolicked nude on stage.

"The show runs for 13 weeks," says Vernon.

"And once people become familiar with the format they'll enjoy it even more."