The producer of The Royal Family has joined the BBC to oversee a raft of new comedy shows.

Kenton Allen has been poached from Elisabeth Murdoch's independent production house Shine to take the role of Editor, Comedy.

He has close ties with Caroline Aherne, having also worked on The Mrs Merton Show and Back Passage, her travel documentary arbout India.

Allan has also worked with Harry Enfield on Songs and Praise, based on Private Eye's St Albion column - but also the Denise Van Outen sitcom Babes in the Wood.

His role, which he takes up next week, will be develop comedy across all BBC channels.

Sophie Clarke-Jervoise, the BBC's head of comedy said: "I am delighted Kenton is joining us. He has a unique skill in attracting and managing talent both on and off-screen and will be a huge asset to us."

Kenton said: "This is an irresistible offer to work with a brilliant team at the home of great British comedy."