BBC One has commissioned a fifth season of Call the Midwife, before the fourth season has even aired.

Taking the nuns and midwives into 1961, Season 5 will consist of a Christmas special next year followed by eight new 60-minute episodes in 2016.

Executive producer Pippa Harris commented: “We’re delighted that the BBC have commissioned a fifth series of Call the Midwife. The international success of the show is testament to the passion, dedication and skill of Heidi Thomas and the wonderfully talented cast and crew who have created a truly brilliant fourth series for our loyal viewers to enjoy on screen very soon.”

Ben Stephenson, Controller BBC Drama commissioning, added: “Call the Midwife is one of UK’s most popular dramas and in series four Heidi Thomas’ writing meets new heights.”

> Buy the complete Season 1-3 boxset on Amazon.

Call the Midwife returns next month with a third Christmas special, with Season 4 following on directly in January.

Are you looking forward to the show’s return? Let us know below…