Fans of the Channel 4 brain-teasing 'Countdown' quiz programme will be in for a special treat today — as it will feature a musical appearance by the Jager Maestros for one of their special '8 out of 10 Cats' shows hosted by comedian Jimmy Carr.

No Riley

The 'Maestros' filmed their appearance a couple of weeks ago at Media City in Salford Quays alongside comedians, John Richardson, Sean Lock, Bob Mortimer and Claudia Winkleman — who much to the disappointment of certain players, was filling in for Rachel Riley!

Following their hugely successful show at Butlin's in January the producers had got in touch to ask Chris Haigh and his team to come along and be part of the somewhat surreal 'countdown' interlude featuring Jimmy Carr that takes place in-between the letters being picked and the contestants revealing their answers.

Surreal 30 seconds

Maestro front-man Chris told 4BR: "I guess we fitted the bill! They usually want something different, mad and extrovert to fill the 30 seconds, which, on a show that involves the likes of Bob Mortimer (of 'Shooting Stars' fame) is a rather tall order!"

To meet the very special needs, Brighouse & Rastrick trombone star Ryan Watkins wrote a brilliant 30-second ditty to coincide with the sweeping hand of the clock which sampled Bavarian classics whilst also filtering in the famous 'countdown' ending.

And with a little help from some banding friends as the filming took place during the day — the ensemble did a couple of rehearsals before being joined by Jimmy Carr who added his own touch of musicianship to the feature!

Brighouse & Rastrick trombone star Ryan Watkins wrote a brilliant 30-second ditty to coincide with the sweeping hand of the clock which sampled Bavarian classics whilst also filtering in the famous 'countdown' ending4BR

Brilliant fun

Chris added: "It was brilliant fun, and great exposure for the band. We couldn't quite persuade Jimmy to wear lederhosen, but he was delighted to become an honorary 'Maestro' whilst Bob Mortimer and Jonny Vegas (who was filming the next show later that evening) joined us in the green room and kept us laughing all day."

Chris revealed that the recording took place in front of a live studio audience — and whilst the contestants had to have a few re-takes, the band's insert was done in one go!

Time and place

The show will be aired on Channel 4 on Thursday (3rd March) at 9.00pm or you can Sky+ it to watch at a later time.

You can see more of the bands behind-the-scenes pictures at: www.jagermaestros.com