TV fans can look forward to a complete series of Alma’s Not Normal written and starring Bolton comedian Sophie Willan.

A pilot TV episode of the comedy was shown on BBC2 earlier this month and such has been the response from audiences and critics alike that the BBC has commissioned a further five episodes.

A delighted Sophie said: “I’ve been overwhelmed by the fabulous response to the pilot and I’m so excited to be developing the series.

“I’ve already been using the lockdown as a chance to get cracking so I’m just pleased to have the official go ahead I can’t wait to get it made and share the world of Alma with everyone.”

Inspired by Sophie’s own experiences, it follows Alma who is trying to rebuild her life after a break-up while dealing with her heroin addict mum and an eccentric grandma.

Like the pilot episode, the series will be filmed in and around Bolton where Sophie grew up.

She spent much of her teens in care as her mother was an addict before being found accommodation by the Bolton Young Persons Housing Scheme.

Shane Allen, the BBC’s Controller of Comedy Commissioning said: “Alma’s Not Normal landed so wonderfully formed with its distinctiveness, heart on sleeve charm, sparky humour and knockout cast.

“Sophie’s raw honesty, eye for characterisation and comedic insouciance have resulted in a cracking show bursting with potential.”

Critics were equally impressed with the pilot show with one describing it as “Phoenix Nights meets Fleabag, guided by the spirit of Victoria Wood”.

Sophie has become one of the rising stars of the stand-up circuit with a series of one-woman shows and she was also the winner of the Caroline Aherne Bursary Award, named after the Royle Family creator, which allowed her to work on Alma’s Not Normal.

The show’s executive producer Nerys Evans said: “Her writing is so authentic and intelligent; in just one episode she has created such a fully-formed world. Her characters are beautifully observed and often flawed and sometimes challenging, but Sophie’s humour allows her to explore some really difficult subjects.

“I can’t wait to see how the story unfolds across a series as she’s bursting with brilliant ideas.”

Before the pilot episode was screened, Sophie said that it would take her around six months to write a complete series should it be commissioned.

Shane Allen said: “We just couldn’t resist a series and hope it does the memory and spirit of Caroline Aherne very proud.”

Transmission dates of the new series have yet to be announced.