The first series may be coming to an end on Wednesday night but Ricky Gervais' Derek has already been picked up by Channel 4 for a second run. The news is hardly surprising, considering the show picked up an average of 2.1 million viewers in its first season.

Gervais, who wrote, directed and of course starred in the series, was only delighted to hear that six more 30-minute episodes have been commissioned. "Derek is probably my favourite thing of everything I've done, so I can't wait to start thinking up some new adventures for the gang" he said.

Head of Comedy Phil Clarke said he loves the show and is delighted to welcome it back to Channel 4 for a third time (The pilot hit screens in April 2012, in case you've forgotten). "It's an original comic vision, brave, funny and touching, with a star performance at its heart. It has already garnered a loyal following." he said.

Catch the last in the current series of Derek, Wednesday night at 10pm on Channel 4.