BBC to air Detectorists and Motherland Christmas specials

'Detectorists' is to return for a new special episode.

The BBC comedy - which stars Mackenzie Crook and Toby Jones as metal detecting enthusiasts Andy and Lance, who are part of the The Danebury Metal Detecting Club (DMDC) - will be back for a 75-minute episode, which will air on BBC Two and iPlayer, five years after the end of the third series.

The show's return will see the DMDC in trouble, with developers sniffing around their scout hall HQ.

But Lance looks set to save the day after securing 10 actress of prime, undetected land, only for him to break protocol, which threatens his friendship with Andy.

Mackenzie, who also executive produced the festive special, recently said: "It was 2017 when we were last in Danebury and I miss my old friends in the DMDC [Danebury Metal Detecting Club].

"I've had a story percolating for a while and I thought it was worth getting Lance, Andy and the rest of the band back together for.

"The affection expressed for 'Detectorists' over the years has been incredible and I hope fans of the show will enjoy this new, extended episode."

What's more, BBC Two sitcom 'Motherland' - written by Sharon Horgan - is heading to BBC One for a festive special, 'Motherland: Last Christmas'.

Anna Maxwell Martin will reprise her role as busy mum Julia, who has a full house for Christmas, including her divorcee dad pal Kevin (Paul Ready).

Liz (Diane Morgan) also turns up to Julia's when her ex cancels following a massive Christmas Eve bender, letting her down on his first ever offer to host.