ITV1 orders third series of 'Benidorm'

ITV1 has ordered an hour-long special and a third series of Benidorm.

The one-off will pick up the storyline from where this year's second run ended, then the full series will see the characters reunited again one year on.

"Benidorm has a fantastic mix of warmth, charm, and fun," said Peter Fincham, ITV's new director of television. "I am delighted to have this popular series returning to the channel next year.

"After a Bafta nomination for the first series and ratings success for the second, ITV is delighted to announce that our favourite holidaymakers will be returning in 2009 with a one-hour special and eight new episodes."

Paul Jackson, director of entertainment and comedy, added: "Gaining a Bafta nomination for best sitcom was a fantastic moment and with such impressive ratings ITV is very pleased to commission more. Benidorm has performed brilliantly on the channel and online. The series clearly has a great fan base."