Sky1 has announced that it has ordered a fourth series of Stella, the Welsh valleys-set comedy drama created by and starring Ruth Jones.

The news has been announced before the third series has finished broadcasting, with new episodes currently showing on Friday nights.

Sky explains: "Stella was swiftly established as a customer favourite, claiming the spot of the second biggest UK comedy launch in multichannel history with its debut in 2012. The heartwarming family saga, set in the Welsh valleys, continues to charm audiences and is the channel's most watched comedy to date. The series was also honoured last year with three British Academy Cymru Awards in the Television Drama, Editing and Writing categories."

Ruth Jones, who was recently awarded an MBE, says: "I'm thrilled that Sky viewers love delving into the world of Pontyberry so much that we're being welcomed back for a fourth series. It's stunnin' presh."

David Peet, producer, co-creator and storyliner, who is Jones's husband and co-runs their production company, adds: "Tidy Productions is proud to have delivered such a large scale hit series for Sky. It's a joy that the audience love the show so much."

Sky Comedy commissioner Lucy Lumsden comments: "Stella's continued success has been a massive part of comedy's journey on Sky 1 HD. With its Welsh warmth and wit, we are delighted to bring back the fourth series for our customers."

A Christmas special will commence filming next month, followed by production on the ten new hour-long episodes which will form Series 4. The new series will be ready for transmission in early 2015.

See also: Ruth Jones and Patrick Baladi talk about Series 3 of the comedy. Interview