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Gavin and Stacey fans have finally received news that there's a special reunion episode in the works for later this year.

A one-hour special will air this Christmas and reunite the cast of the much-loved British comedy - which is partly set and filmed in Wales.

The news was revealed earlier this morning in a tweet by creator and actor James Corden, who shared a photograph of the script with his followers.

The hit BBC sitcom, created and written by Corden and Ruth Jones, debuted in 2007 and has since become a cultural phenomenon.

It followed the relationship between Gavin (Mathew Horne), from Essex, and Stacey (Joanna Page), from Wales, as they juggled their lives and love - all whilst miles apart from one another.

The series, which also featured the likes of Larry Lamb and Rob Brydon, went on to explore the impact their relationship had on their friends and family.

Spanning three series and a 2008 Christmas special, the comedy last appeared on our screens in 2010 - with fans urging its creators to reunite ever since.

Speaking on the upcoming episode, Jones and Corden said: "Over the last ten years we've talked a lot about Gavin and Stacey - where they might be today and what their lives might look like.

"And so in secret we took the plunge and wrote this one hour special."

The acting and writing duo said that "bringing the characters back together has been a joy," teasing that the "fabulous cast and crew" will return for the one-off special.

The pair also thanked the BBC for helping make the long-awaited reunion a reality.

Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content, added: "Everyone at the BBC is hugely excited to be welcoming back Gavin and Stacey to BBC One this Christmas.

"We can’t wait to see what's happened to everyone over the last nine years, and what’s next for one of the nation’s favourite comedy families."

(Image: 2008 Getty Images)

Fans were quick to share their excitement following the news, with one noting: "We've never needed this more than we do right now".

"Very exciting," wrote another, whilst many simply responded to Corden's tweet with "oh my god!"

Some fans speculated that we may find out what happened on that infamous boat trip, though others were just thankful for the reunion whatever the plot.