My Big Fat Gypsy Christmas

Channel 4 has commissioned a Christmas special of 'Big Fat Gypsy Weddings'.

TV bosses are reportedly planning to build on the existing success of the documentary series - which showcases the extravagant weddings and holy communions of the traveller community - and has already ordered a festive special, which is likely to be called 'My Big Fat Gypsy Christmas'.

A senior Channel 4 factual programming executive explained: "Of course, with 8 million people tuning in we would be stupid if we said that was it and we will not be doing anything more on the subject.

"It hasn't just been a success, it's been an astonishing success. No documentaries, not even ones on BBC One or ITV1, get more than 8 million these days."

However, while Channel 4 bosses have reportedly decided a 'Big Fat Gypsy Funerals' series would be "too downcast" for the primetime audience, there are plans in place to introduce further spin-off shows.

The source added to The Guardian newspaper: "Future programmes may involve the people from the series, it may be other travellers, but Channel 4 will definitely be doing more programmes on this subject.

"As well as offering a fascinating insight into a group of people many people in the UK didn't know much about, the series is jaw-droppingly visual and brilliantly made."