Ed Sheeran to feature on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs

Ed Sheeran is set to appear on Desert Island Discs when the weekly BBC Radio 4 show makes its return in a few weeks time. Following the chart-topping success of his latest album Divide, the Castle On The Hill singer will be tasked with selecting eight recordings – be them music or otherwise – that he couldn't live without if he ever, inexplicably, found himself stranded in a far-off place.

As well as choosing their all-time favourite tracks, interviewees also name a book that they'd take with them in the hypothetical situation, as well as one luxury item. Whether they like it or not, guests are automatically given the Complete Works of Shakespeare and a Bible – presumably, just so no one has it easy when it comes to decision time.

Previous famous faces who have taken part in the programme since presenter Kirsty Young started hosting in 2006 include Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman, Sherlock co-creator Mark Gatiss, Goldie Hawn, Kylie Minogue and Bruce Springsteen. The show celebrated its 75th anniversary back in January when David Beckham picked his own top tunes.

Sheeran kicked off the UK leg of his Divide world tour on Easter Sunday (16 April), following a 13-week stint in the number one spot for his single Shape of You. Playing to the SSE Arena in Glasgow, he performed new hits from his latest album as well as a few from previous records, Plus and Multiply.

The 26-year-old was recently knocked off the top spot by former One Direction member Harry Styles and his song Sign Of The Times. Sheeran tweeted his support of his friend, admitting he was "genuinely" happy to be succeeded by Styles.

Sheeran's pre-recorded Desert Island Discs special will be broadcast on Sunday 7 May at 11.15am.