Channel 5 has confirmed that the reboot of All Creatures Great and Small has been given a second series following its successful relaunch earlier this year.

The drama, set in the Yorkshire Dales in the 1940s, first aired for seven series on the BBC between 1978 and 1990 but has been revived with a new cast - including the late Dame Diana Rigg - by Channel 5.

The first series became the channel's highest-rating original drama ever when it aired during lockdown, averaging a colossal 5.1 million viewers, and now C5 has committed to a second series and another Christmas special for 2021.

"In challenging times, this new adaptation gained a special place in the heart of the British public," said Sebastian Cardwell, Channel 5's deputy director of programmes.

"With values of community spirit, solidarity and heart-felt compassion, these stories are important ones for us to tell, now more than ever. I'm delighted that we will be seeing more of James and his Darrowby family when they return to our screens soon."

The show will return to Channel 5 on Christmas Eve for a one-off festive special.