Ben Elton pens new sitcom pilot

Ben Elton has written a new sitcom set in the dysfunctional world of local government.

The comic has penned a pilot episode of the show, called Slings And Arrows, for BBC1.

It stars David Haig as an "exasperated everyman" called Gerald Measley who runs the health and safety department of a local council.

Other cast members include Ashes To Ashes star Montserrat Lombard and comedian Nathan Caton.

Executive editor Gregor Sharp said: "We're thrilled to be working with Ben on this new project, and are delighted to bring his brilliant writing together with David Haig's superb comedy talents to make the pilot. I can't wait to see it."

Ben, who first found fame as an alternative comic in the 1980s, has written novels, musicals and television shows including The Young Ones and Blackadder.