David Jason returns to Doncaster as corner shop reopens its doors

James Baxter as Leroy, and David Jason, as Granville.

David Jason will return as shopkeeper Granville for six half-hour episodes to be shown on BBC One later this year.

The original Open All Hours ran for 26 episodes in the 1970s and 80s, and starred Ronnie Barker as grocer Arkwright, the uncle of Granville.

The festive special, Still Open all Hours, was watched by 12.2 million people, making it the most watched comedy programme of the year.

It also registered as the most-viewed comedy since the Vicar of Dibley in 2007.

David Jason said: “I am so delighted that we are doing a series of Still Open All Hours as the feedback from our Christmas special has been so rewarding and encouraging.

“We want to have more fun giving the audience the kind of show they seemed to appreciate. It goes to prove that the corner shop is still open all hours.”

The new series will continue to be written by Roy Clarke, who based the show in his home town of Doncaster.

Clarke said: “I’m delighted. It’s like going back home.”