Channel 4 has confirmed that its sitcom Catastrophe is to return for a third and fourth series.

The network has taken the unusual step of ordering two series in one go as the show has performed strongly, both in terms of ratings and appreciation from viewers and critics. Written by and starring Sharon Horgan and Rob Delaney, the comedy has won a large number of awards since it made its debut in January 2015, including a BAFTA, international Rose d'Or Award, and two RTS Awards.

The sitcom's second series, which aired in October, saw UK viewing figures rise by 20% to an average of 1.4 million per episode. This figure makes it one of the best performing programmes on Channel 4 in the last twelve months.

Producers Avalon say the third six-part series will go into production in November, for a premiere on Channel 4 in 2017, with Series 4 to follow after that.

Phil Clarke from Channel 4 said in a statement: "I am thrilled to commission a third and fourth series of the multi award-winning Catastrophe. It's a welcome return for the brave, razor edged, excruciatingly honest and painfully funny portrayal of a modern, long term relationship."

The creators themselves say: "We are thrilled to be making a third series of Catastrophe. Rob and Sharon are a blast to spend time with. And we're not talking about ourselves in the third person, we're talking about the characters. We're eager to breathe life back into Rob and Sharon. Okay, now we are talking about us. In the first series Rob and Sharon went through a lot (us) and even more in the second series (back to the characters). We're looking forward to putting Rob and Sharon (both us and the characters) through further pain for your enjoyment (now we're talking about you)."

Catastrophe is currently being re-made for French Canadian television, featuring different stars in the main roles (Picture).