An Alan Partridge movie? It’s finally happening…

Aha! After years of rumours and speculation, the iconic broadcaster Steve Coogan will finally receive a movie of his own in 2013.

Starring Steve Coogan as the fictional radio and TV presenter, the film, titled "The Alan Partridge Movie", is to be directed by Irishman Declan Lowney, best known for his work directing the Christmas special of Father Ted and a series of shorts for The Rubberbandits.

Announcing today's StudioCanal deal to seek UK distribution, Coogan released a statement in-character as Alan Partridge himself.

“I'm simultaneously gladdened and pleased to see a British film being co-funded by the French dudes at StudioCanal," said Partridge.

"This is without doubt the greatest Anglo-French co-operation since the Normandy landings. This time, the heroes aren't Allied servicemen - they're motion picture financiers, who are equally brave.

"I'd also like to add that 'canal' - or, in English, 'canal' - is a transportation system close to my heart. In the late 18th century, this new method of logistics halved the price of coal in many English cities. If StudioCanal’s investment can achieve even a fraction of that, I will be delighted.”

As for plot details, The Thick Of It screenwriter and writing partner of Coogan's, Armando Iannucci, spilled the beans last week, stating: "Alan is in Norwich. It's not 'Alan goes to Hollywood'; it's not 'Alan invaded by aliens' or anything like that. He's on North Norfolk Digital, which is taken over by a bigger media conglomerate and has its name changed to Shape. And that kicks everything off."

The Alan Partridge Movie hits cinemas on August 16, 2013, with filming to begin in January. In other words, don't expect a trailer any time soon.