BBC Three has ordered a "chosen family" sitcom from comedian Phil Dunning starring Mark Benton as a drag queen, British Comedy Guide can exclusively reveal.

Smoggie Queens is described as "an out and out comedy" focused on "a gang of friends who are fiercely proud of their North-Eastern town of Middlesbrough and their small pocket of the LGBTQ+ community", an "underdog story on two fronts, so expect a few passionate scraps that may send your wig flying!"

Written by Dunning, himself a Middlesbrough native, or "Smoggie", the six 30-minute episodes tell the story of volatile Dickie (Dunning), drag queen Mam (Early Doors' Benton), self-styled "hun" Lucinda (former Coronation Street and The Family Pile star Alexandra Mardell), awkward Sal (Patsy Lowe) and newcomer Stewart (Elijah Young), as they navigate love, life and their pride for a town that feels neglected in its own little corner of the UK.

"I'm absolutely buzzing that the BBC are taking Smoggie Queens to series and I'm so grateful to them for allowing me to write such stupid and weird characters" said Dunning, who initially came to prominence in sketch group Oyster Eyes and whose acting credits include Ellie & Natasia, Am I Being Unreasonable? and Feel Good.

"It's been a beautiful dream working with Hat Trick and the incredible cast already feel like my new chosen family" he added. "I can't wait to introduce the sights, sounds and smells of Middlesbrough to the world."

The commission follows a non-broadcast pilot shot on Teeside in October, directed by Tom Kingsley (Ghosts). Andrew Chaplin (Alma's Not Normal) is helming the series.

Chris Jones (Kate & Koji), producing for Hat Trick Productions (Derry Girls, Outnumbered), said: "Phil has a brilliantly funny, energetic and well-observed style to his writing. It's been extremely special to develop this fiercely proud chosen family sitcom with him along with exceptional support from BBC Comedy. We're so excited to bring these characters to life through our very talented cast and crew."

Jimmy Mulville, managing director of Hat Trick, added: "Smoggie Queens is a joy. Phil has created and stars in a show which is introducing us to our new best friends. They're the kind of people who look adversity in the eye and laugh! It's just the tonic we need right now."

The series was commissioned by Jon Petrie, director of BBC Comedy, with the commissioning editor for the BBC Gregor Sharp. It received funding support from the North East Screen Industries Partnership delivered by North East Screen, with Hat Trick International handling worldwide distribution.

"Smoggie Queens is a show bursting with jokes and heart" said Petrie. "Phil Dunning has concocted a brilliant ensemble piece that we know will refuse to go unnoticed!"

A transmission date for the series will be announced in due course.