Robin Ellis, the original star of much loved TV show Poldark, is set to make a "poignant" return in the new BBC series.

Mr Ellis said that he is "delighted" that Mammoth Screen have offered him a cameo in their new production.

"Poldark has brought much joy to my life–I’ve often called them Poldark Perks–which doesn’t do them justice.

"I am delighted to be invited to play a role in the new venture which has got off to a flying start with superb scripts from Debbie Horsfield  and a tremendous first tranche of principal casting.

Robin has been cast as Dr. Halse–the clergyman that Ross shares the coach with on his journey home to Nampara from Truro in the opening scene of the first series.

He added: "Back then, a benign figure–in the new series he comes over as rather less so. I fear I’ll be exchanging the marvelous leather coat and boots for drab, black church cloth and a sneer.

"Joining the Cornish establishment that Ross so despises, though he was born into it, will be a challenge

Robin said that joining the new Poldark will be exciting–but also poignant for him, bringing back many "wonderful" memories of 40 years ago.

Adding: "Not least in my mind will be fellow members of the original cast–especially those no longer with us: the beloved Angharad Rees, Ralph Bates, Richard Morant, Frank Middlemas, Paul Curran and Mary Wimbush.

"I’ll be there for their memory–and for the late Winston Graham–as well as for the intriguing prospect of acting with the new cast to help bring this wonderful saga to a new audience."