 The producers had originally intended to end the programme in 2001 but pressure for another run meant it came back for one last series. Critics welcomed the decision to end the series and the final episode gained the highest viewing figure in the history of the programme, with 10.7 million people watching Rachel's funeral. Numerous accolades were endowed on the programme (particularly for the final episode, which rated highly in viewer polls) including the prestigious Best Comedy Award at the British Comedy Awards.
