Lost : nine new characters for season five

The producers of Lost warned that they'd be taking the show in a new direction.

And, as shooting begins (the cameras, not the castaways!) they've introduced a whole raft - excuse the pun - of new characters.

Whether they'll be featured in the flash forwards or flashbacks, or if they're yet another bunch of survivors from that damn plane, has yet to be revealed.

But here's your guide to who'll be who:

Foreman is in his 40s or 50s. He's a blue-collar construction worker who worked hard to get where he is and provide for his family. He cares deeply for his crew, and hates it when management is condescending and arrogant, but ultimately knows his place in the pecking order.

Martha is a scientist in her late 30s. She has a strong personality and is taking a break to raise her baby, but plans to return to work again. She completely believes in the work she is doing but sometimes questions the decisions of those in charge. She'll be in multiple episodes.

Dan is a high-priced attorney in his 40s. He is sharp and friendly with a menace lurking below the surface. He'll appear in multiple episodes, too.

Nigel is British and in his late teens. Despite being rough around the edges, he is mature and extremely smart. He'll appear in the second and third episodes of season 5.

Sophie is British, in her late teens, and seemingly innocent, but in fact hides a toughness and ingenuity. She'll be in the third episode of the season.

Caesar is dangerous, physical and extremely intelligent. He's between the ages of 35 and 45 and he's skillful at charming people and killing them. He'll be in several episodes.

Ilana is a European woman in her late 20s or early 30s who is intelligent and dangerous, alluring and used to getting her own way. She'll be in multiple episodes.

Darlene is in her early 20s, and is a bored clerk who hates her job and looks for excitement to get through the shift. Alternative in dress and style, she plays guitar in her own band but needs the day job to pay the bills. Did she know Charlie?

Jill, in her late 20s, is hard as nails but cool. She's a tomboy with a secret, and is highly competent beyond her station in life.

Many of the 17 episodes have already been completed, with other scripts being written and revised. The actors have returned to their island homes or hotels and met with make-up and wardrobe consultants.

Some have had discussions with the directors and they've even been given a script (well, at least a script of their own parts) to read. Lost will be back in January or February next year.