Shane Richie, who will step in as host for a one-off Christmas special of Jim'll Fix It

Londoner Shane Richie is taking on the role of the late Sir Jimmy Savile in a Christmas revival of Jim’ll Fix It.

BBC1 will screen a half-hour edition of the show, in which the dreams of young viewers come true.

Cigar-chomping TV legend Sir Jimmy, who died earlier this month aged 84, was one of TV’s most popular stars thanks to his “fix-its” on the Saturday evening show which was broadcast between 1975 and 1994.

The new programme will even feature the original theme tune, although the BBC says it will have a “modern twist”.

BBC1 controller Danny Cohen said: “I think it will be a great tribute to Jimmy to re-create his famous show as a Christmas treat for audiences.”

Richie - Alfie Moon in EastEnders - said: “On being asked what my memories were on the iconic BBC1 series Jim’ll Fix It, the visions of stories and people came flooding back, as it was compulsive television in our house and all my friends would talk about the ‘fix-its’.

“I even wrote in, but wasn’t one of the lucky ones. I’m honoured to be part of this Christmas special and salute Sir Jimmy and fix it for a new generation.”

Hopefuls who want to take part in the show should be 14 or under and can apply by sending their wish to fixit@bbc.co.uk before November 25.