Get the Sangria out for a toast, because Benidorm is to return to telly for a ninth series, show bosses have confirmed.

The final episode of series eight airs on STV tonight (Monday February 22) but it’s been such a hit it’s already been announced that the holiday comedy will be back.

This current series has so far averaged 5.8 million viewers across the run.

Many of the comedy’s favourites, including the ever-resourceful Solana staff that includes Joyce Temple Savage (Sherrie Hewson), Les/Lesley (Tim Healy) and Mateo (Jake Canuso) will all be back.

But details of other new and returning characters, guest stars and storylines are being kept very tightly under wraps for the moment.

The ITV commissioning editor for Benidorm, Saskia Schuster, says: "The storylines for the new series of Benidorm are wonderfully sharp and funny capturing the very heart and soul of what's made this comedy so successful with viewers.

“We've got some really good surprises in store for viewers this year with filming set to commence on location in Spain next month".

Meanwhile, in the episode finale tonight, it’s time for The Pride of Benidorm Awards. But as expected, all will not go to plan... Check out a preview of the action below and tune in at 9pm on STV.

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Benidorm finale: Crystal Hennessy-Vass brings the house down at awards bash

](http://shows.stv.tv/talk-tv/1343179-benidorm-finale-crystal-hennessy-vass-brings-the-house-down-at-awards-bash/)via STV SHOWS