Rock icon Brian Pern will be returning to television. Following a series on BBC4 and another on BBC2 a third series will be transmitted on BBC4, marking Pern's 45 years in showbusiness.

According to a report on radiotimes.com the core band members of Thotch, Pat Quid and Tony Pebblé, played by Paul Whitehouse and Nigel Havers, will also reappear as will hard-nosed manager Gary Farrow, played by Michael Kitchen.

Pern's creator Rhys Thomas issued the following statement: "I am thrilled that Brian Pern is returning to BBC Four, though it has been hard to celebrate since receiving numerous death threats from certain members of Genesis and a mechanic from Mike and The Mechanics. I’d like to thank the landlord of our safe house for being so kind and the police for their continued support."

Pern is also due to make a one-off live appearance in London on October 19. Details here.