This year's Not Going Out Christmas special will be broadcast live.

Producers announced today: "For the first time ever, Lee Mack's multi award-winning hit show, Not Going Out, is going out LIVE on BBC One this Christmas.

"With no room for slip ups or mistakes (no pressure then) we join Lee (Lee Mack) and Lucy (Sally Bretton) live from their festively decorated living room, nervously discussing the Ding Dong Merrily on Live Christmas Spectacular - the Christmas variety show they've been strong-armed into organising to raise money for their children's school.

"But things are rarely plain sailing for our duo, as they soon come to realise. With an animal impersonator as the only confirmed performer, quality acts are worryingly thin on the ground. Who will Lee and Lucy turn to? Surely Toby (Hugh Dennis) and uptight wife Anna (Abigail Cruttenden) can't be roped in? With raw egg juggling and some knife throwing (CUT!) for good measure... what could possibly go wrong?"

Lee Mack says: "Live episode of a BBC One sitcom... what could possibly go wrong? Loads. Which, let's be honest, is why you sadists will be watching. So don't miss out on seeing me end my career."

The episode will be broadcast on Friday 21st December on BBC One.

The stars are currently part way through filming the 10th series of the sitcom, for broadcast in 2019. Tickets are still available for some studio recording dates.