A new show for the controversial Scottish comedian Frankie Boyle, as well as the return of The League of Gentlemen, has been announced by the BBC.

The popular Steve Coogan character, Alan Partridge, is also due to return to the broadcaster, the controller of BBC Two told the Edinburgh International TV Festival.

Alex Moody, commissioning editor of comedy at BBC Two added: "It's an exciting thing.

"The BBC is in need and who better? With Brexit and political unrest what broadcaster do we need to make sense of it all, but Partridge?"

The League Of Gentlemen, winners of the main comedy award on the Fringe in 1997, will be back on screens later this year for three special episodes to commemorate the 20th anniversary since its debut on BBC radio.

BBC Two also announced plans for an eight-part documentary series about people who shaped the course of the last century, titled Icons: The Story Of The 20th Century.

Each episode, presented by a well-known public figure, will focus on a particular field - leaders, scientists, activists, artists, revolutionaries, inventors and entertainers - with the presenter identifying three notable associated people from 20th century.

Holland said: "We are looking for the ability to generate a variety of voices, the ability to generate argument and opinion.

"Throughout the series you have the opportunity to get real debate and passion in history, it's an active thing. I hope it provokes debate."

The series is in pre-production now and will air in 2019.

BBC Two confirmed there will be more episodes of The Real Marigold Hotel.

It also provided a look at new satirical news show The Mash Report, fronted by stand-up comedian Nish Kumar.

He also announced documentary series about the Foreign Office and the British Army, as well as a 90-minute film about the artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.