Aherne as Mrs Merton with Craig Cash as Malcolm

BBC Two controller Jane Root has visited the star in Sydney and is on the point of signing a deal with Aherne to bring the series to British TV screens early next year.

Ms Root said: "Caroline is one of the most talented people in television and it is fantastic that we are able to continue her relationship with BBC Two."

Abrupt departure The show will be called Dossa and Joe, and features the popular for Neighbours star Anne Charleston - who played Madge Bishop - as well as Australian actor John Caton, who has appeared in the film The Castle.

Aherne's abrupt departure to Australia this year surprised the entertainment world.

She said that she wanted to take a year off - and away from the constant scrutiny that went along with appearing on TV.

The TV addicted Royles quickly became a hit

But friends reported that after just a few months in Australia her morale was much improved and she was eager to begin working again.

However it is unlikely that Aherne is planning to bring back The Royle Family, though a BBC spokeswoman said that the corporation would be willing to do another series.

"You never say never no to something as popular as that," said the spokeswoman.