HE was an iconic children’s television character who loved nothing more than a cup of tea and a slice of cake.

The adventures of Worzel Gummidge captured the imagination of a generation as thousands tuned in to watch his latest antics around the Hampshire countryside.

Now the much-loved scarecrow is set to make a return to the screens as the rights to the show have been bought by a production company.

Originally filmed in Hampshire villages including Stockbridge, Kings Somborne and Braishfield, Worzel Gummidge was the most popular show produced by Southampton-based Southern Television for ITV.

The series enjoyed huge success throughout the filming of its four series from 1979 to 1981, and continued to be rebroadcast years after its making.

The show featured the late Jon Pertwee in the title role and followed his many antics, including his efforts to win the heart of his true love Aunt Sally, played by Una Stubbs.

Now the characters are set for a 21st century makeover after the rights were bought by media company RDF – responsible for productions including Wife Swap, Location Location, Location, and The Secret Millionaire.

Nigel Pickard, director of family entertainment at RDF, said: “We feel there is real potential for these classic brands to be reworked for a modern day audience.”

RDF will be working with Pidgeon Entertainment with plans to air it not only in the UK but also worldwide.

Patrick Pidgeon, founder of Pidgeon Entertainment said: “It has always been my intent to bring the iconic show back. I am confident that today’s worldwide kids audience will embrace it as well.”

“ With new global media applications, the timing could not be better suited for the programme to get a fresh and imaginative 21st century makeover, but remaining true to the spirit and legacy of each property.”

Jon Pertwee’s son Sean is being tipped to play the character made famous by his dad, while David Walliams of Little Britain fame is also in the running.

Southern Television, a forerunner of Meridian TV adapted the Worzel Gummidge character from children’s books by Barbara Euphan Todd.

They date back to 1936 and told the story of a scarecrow with interchangeable heads for thinking, dancing, and working.

  • Does your husband, boyfriend, brother, or friend look like Worzel Gummidge? Or does your wife, girlfriend, or sister look like Aunt Sally?

Send your pictures to newsdesk@dailyecho.co.uk.