BBC Two is to air a 'lost' episode of The Morecambe & Wise Show in full this Christmas.

The Autumn 1970 special hasn't been seen in its entirety on British television since it was first broadcast on 8th October 1970, marking their move from BBC Two to BBC One.

The BBC explains: "As a Christmas treat for comedy fans, this is a complete episode of The Morecambe And Wise Show, that had been considered 'lost' for over 50 years. Eric's son Gary Morecambe discovered the programme in an unmarked film can in 2020, and now it has been lovingly restored and can be enjoyed in full for the first time since being first broadcast."

Eric and Ernie's first programme for BBC One, it was made in colour but discovered on black and white film. The BBC has put the episode through a colour recovery process, and restored both the picture and soundtrack. Written by Eddie Braben, it was originally watched by over 14 million viewers.

The BBC says: "As well as some classic sketches from Eric and Ernie, the show also features songs and music from Paul Anka, Patricia Lambert, Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen, and the boys themselves rounding things off with a burst of Bring Me Sunshine."

Highlights from the episode were broadcast in July this year in ITV show Morecambe & Wise: The Lost Tapes. However, a number of viewers of that programme complained that the VTs of celebrities talking about the show got in the way of being able to watch the programme itself.

A broadcast date for the airing, which will be titled The Morecambe & Wise Show 1970 - The Lost Tape, will be announced nearer Christmas.