A sequel to Shaun The Sheep Movie has been confirmed.

Aardman Animations has announced it will begin pre-production work on Shaun The Sheep Movie 2 in January 2017.

The company says: "The world's favourite sheep returns to the big screen in Shaun The Sheep Movie 2, the sequel to his hugely successful and highly acclaimed Oscar nominated 2015 cinematic debut. Shaun and the Flock are back for another epic and hilarious journey, in what will be their biggest and most exciting adventure yet."

News of a sequel has been expected for some time, with the first movie having made $106 million worldwide.

The new film will be overseen by Richard Starzak, who co-directed the first film, and producer Paul Kewley, who worked on the 2015 film as well.

David Sproxton from Aardman says: "Shaun's move to the big screen proved such a success with audiences around the world that he and the flock are very excited to be embarking on another big screen adventure. Aardman is partnering with STUDIOCANAL once again to produce another rip-roaring comedy, featuring Shaun and the rest of the gang in a story that takes them to even greater heights of lunacy."

Ron Halpern from distributors STUDIOCANAL adds: "All of us here at STUDIOCANAL are Aardman fans. To get to see the wonderful way they work in Bristol as they have for 40 years now through to the first Shaun The Sheep Movie was an experience we will always cherish. Luckily we get to start again with what will definitely be another film showcasing Aardman's unique humour, creativity and craftsmanship."

Further details about the new film are expected next year. It is a busy time for Aardman, as the company is also working on another film. Early Man, due in cinemas in 2018, is set in prehistoric times.