BOLTON funnyman Dave Spikey has been cast in a new BBC series.

The Phoenix Nights star will be appearing in 'Alma's Not Normal', a comedy penned by Bolton's Sophie Willan.

Filming has recently taken place inside Bolton Library and Museum ­— with 'Alma Unit' signs being posted on lampposts in the crescent.

A pilot TV episode of the comedy was shown on BBC2 last year and such has been the response from audiences and critics alike that the BBC commissioned a further five episodes.

A delighted Sophie previously told The Bolton News: “I’ve been overwhelmed by the fabulous response to the pilot.

"I can’t wait to get it made and share the world of Alma with everyone.”

Inspired by Sophie’s own experiences, it follows Alma who is trying to rebuild her life after a break-up while dealing with her heroin addict mum and an eccentric grandma.

Like the pilot episode, the series will be filmed in and around Bolton where Sophie grew up.

Others who have been cast in the show include Siobhan Finneran (Happy Valley, Downton Abbey), Nicholas Asbury (Doctor Who, Chewing Gum) and James Baxter (Still Open all Hours, Emmerdale).

The series follows Alma as she tries to get her life back on track after a break-up.

Sophie said: “I’m delighted that filming is underway for series one of Alma’s Not Normal, and even happier to be working alongside such a fantastic group of actors.

"We can’t wait for audiences to learn more about Alma’s world and the eclectic mix of characters that surround her.”

Nerys Evans, Executive Producer for Expectation, says: "We’re delighted to be making a full series of Alma’s Not Normal, after such a wonderful response to the pilot. Sophie is an incredible talent - she is such a gifted writer and performer and has written something that feels both utterly modern and yet timeless.

"With Gill Isles Producing and Andrew Chaplin Directing, we have an extraordinary team around Sophie to bring Alma to life."