Detectorists to return

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

The BBC Four comedy - which stars Mackenzie Crook and Toby Jones as metal detecting enthusiasts Andy and Lance - will be back for a 75-minute episode, which will air later this year, five years after the end of the third series.

Mackenzie 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."

Producer Gill Isles "can't wait" to see what Mackenzie - who also writes and directs the show - comes up with.

She said: "It's absolutely thrilling to be spending the summer back in Danebury with Mackenzie and the team.

"There is so much love for the show that I can't wait for everyone to see what Mackenzie has in store in this next chapter."

Jon Petrie, the BBC's new Director of Comedy, confirmed the news as he revealed the corporation is to plunge £10 million into comedy over the next two years.

Speaking at the BBC Comedy Festival, he said: "BBC Comedy is doing phenomenally well. Last year, iPlayer had 538 million requests for comedy shows.

"The BBC is by far the biggest fish in the pond when it comes to comedy. There is no other broadcaster that can provide as many services."