IT would take a lot to bring Amanda Byram home.

So we weren't too surprised when the Castleknock girl told us she is about to announce a big new gig on UK television.

RTÉ could well benefit too, with rumours Amanda could be the host of an Irish version of Britain's Got Talent, which Donnybrook bosses are said to be lining up for this spring. Last month Amanda (34) was reported to have had meetings with several Irish production companies about new projects but she would only confirm a new job over the water when she spoke to me this week.

"I'm going to be working in the UK mostly, but it does make sense to do some stuff in Ireland," she said. "I haven't worked on Irish TV for 10 years so it could be a fun venture and I've had a few meetings with production companies in Dublin. But the new job is definitely in the UK."

Why would one of Ireland's most successful TV exports, whose US credits include Paradise Hotel and the addictive makeover show The Swan, be coming back over here?

"There is a time limit on a place like LA, and after five years I'm not sure I would enjoy it full-time for too much longer. I've been getting more and more homesick as the years pass, and it will be great being closer to home."

However, sources say Amanda may be looking for a change of scenery after splitting from LA-based cameraman Matt Novello.

Pals say Amanda's participation as a judge in the Miss Ireland contest last June in Dublin was an early sign she saw her future back on this side of the Atlantic.