Cult sci-fi television show Blake's 7 to make return 30 years after it ended

Hit 1970s sci-fi series Blake's 7 is to make a comeback - more then 30 years after it disappeared from TV screens.

A 13-part series, described as a "revolutionary reinvention" of the BBC programme, is now being developed with Casino Royale director Martin Campbell already on board.

There have been attempts to rejuvenate the show in the past but they have failed to come to fruition.

FremantleMedia International announced today that the series is in the pipeline with Heroes and CSI writer Joe Pokaski working on scripts. It is being developed with US cable network Syfy.

The original series starred Gareth Thomas as Blake, a political dissident, although he was a regular character in only the first two of the four series. It was created by Terry Nation, a regular writer for Doctor Who who conjured up the Daleks.

The new series, set in 2136, tells the story of seven criminals heading to a prison colony in space who escape and take over an alien ship.

David Ellender, the CEO of FremantleMedia International said: "Blake's 7 was such a forward-thinking concept that the show continues to have resonance with audiences today.

"Its complex characters and gritty storylines, coupled with the highly talented team and modern production techniques are sure to appeal to both original fans of the show and new viewers."

Blake's 7 has been revived on radio but efforts to bring it back to the screen - including a Sky-backed return - have not got off the ground until now.

PA