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Fans of Derry Girls buzzing as work begins on second series

Nicola Coughlan in the hit comedy Derry Girls 
Nicola Coughlan in the hit comedy Derry Girls  Nicola Coughlan in the hit comedy Derry Girls 

FANS of hit comedy Derry Girls are buzzing after stars of the show confirmed that work has begun on a second series.

Nicola Coughlan, who plays Clare Devlin, tweeted an image of a 'read through cast list' for a new run on Channel 4, while Jamie-Lee O'Donnell‏ posted a picture of the gang and said "We're back!!"

Fans reacted with excitement to the posts, as speculation grows about storylines for the new series.

Filming is set to take place this month at locations in Derry and Belfast, ahead of broadcast in the new year.

The first series of Derry Girls was a huge success with critics and audiences.

Set against the backdrop of the Troubles in 1990s Derry, Lisa McGee's comedy follows the adventures of four teenage schoolgirls along with an English cousin.

Channel 4 said it was watched by an average of 2.5 million people across the UK, making it the broadcaster's biggest comedy launch since 2004.

It also picked up several prizes, including best comedy at the Irish Film and Television Awards.

Derry Girls is set against the backdrop of the Troubles in 1990s Derry 
Derry Girls is set against the backdrop of the Troubles in 1990s Derry  Derry Girls is set against the backdrop of the Troubles in 1990s Derry 

Speculation about the second series has included a rumour that Bill Clinton's visit to Derry will feature.

Game of Thrones star Ian McElhinney, who plays Granda Joe in Derry Girls, said last month he was aware of the rumour but "I know nothing more about that".

Former Girls Aloud singer Nadine Coyle also revealed that she was speaking to the writer about making an appearance.

Ian McElhinney plays Granda Joe in Derry Girls 
Ian McElhinney plays Granda Joe in Derry Girls  Ian McElhinney plays Granda Joe in Derry Girls