Worzel Gummidge to be remade

Worzel Gummidge, the character made famous by the late Jon Pertwee, is set to return to our screens in a 21st century remake of the classic 1970s children's show.

The production company RDF has won the rights to adapt the popular series for a modern-day audience.

The much-loved scarecrow, who loved a nice cup of tea and a slice of cake, delighted a generation of youngsters with his removable heads and relentless wooing of ruby-cheeked Aunt Sally, who was played by Una Stubbs.

Devised in 1936 as a series of children's books, the show was eventually adapted by ITV into a TV programme running for 30 episodes between 1979 and 1981.

Such was its popularity that it attracted guest appearances from big television stars, including Barbara Windsor, Billy Connolly, Bill Maynard and Lorraine Chase.

When asked why Worzel captivated the imagination of so many children, Pertwee once said: "He says and does the things that all of us would like to do, but are too shy, self-conscious and respectful to. Being rude to those in authority, being selfish... there is something of Worzel in all of us."

It is not yet known who will step into Pertwee's shoes but his actor son, Sean, who has appeared in Cold Feat and Skins, is among those tipped to take on the role.

Also in the running is Little Britain star David Walliams.