The first series of the ITV drama series centred around a school newspaper is coming out on DVD on 19th January 2004.

Originally broadcast in 1990, Press Gang starred Julia Sawalha as the determined editor of the Junior Gazette, Linda Day, Dexter Fletcher as American reporter Spike Thompson and Lee Ross as Kenny Philips, the deputy editor.

Praised for its hard hitting storylines, handled in a sensitive manor, Press Gang also kept the nation's children gripped with the will they-won't they romance between Linda and Spike.

We contacted the writer of the series (and also Coupling), Steven Moffat to ask him how he felt about the news of the release.

"I'm very excited to hear that Press Gang is finally coming out on DVD," Steven said. "- finally I'll have decent copies of the episodes! I just wish I'd know about it sooner, I think Sandy Hastie (the producer) and I could have provided some decent extras. Maybe next time.

"Press Gang was the first television series I wrote and it remains a favourite. I know if I'm talking to someone of the right age (about 30) and they ask what I've written, and I mention Press Gang, suddenly I'm a hero. Also, suddenly I'm old. I try not to focus on that.

"Making an impact on any kind of television audience is fine and lovely. But making an impact on children - that's forever!"

Series one of Press Gang is being released by Network, who have also produced DVDs of cult favourites such as Robin of Sherwood and The Adventures of Black Beauty.