Plans for a third episode of the BBC series “Life on Mars” have been abandoned.

The original show and its sequel, Ashes to Ashes, were huge hits for the network when they aired in 2006, and creators Matthew Graham and Ashley Pharoah announced details of a sequel titled Lazarus in 2020.

But Matthew tweeted that it would not go ahead: “Guys, sad news. After many months of planning, we will now not be doing ‘Lazarus’. I can’t go into details but the hurdles were financial, not creative.”

“Of course everyone involved is sick as a jungle full of parrots. Not least me and Ashley Pharoah.

“It was a great concept – appropriate for our times. It offered a whole new perspective on the relationship between the public and the police.

“And it was damn funny too. But that’s showbiz, as they say, baby.”

“Forgive us if we don’t answer any questions about the decision or what happens next with Gene, Sam and the gang.

“But we wanted to inform those who are interested so you can raise a pint of Tan n Bitter to the Governor instead.”

Ashley also told fans: “Really disappointing news but we’ve been trying hard. We’re still thinking about how we can either share the script with you or get it out in another form. Until then… pub?”

It is clear that “Lazarus” would bring together characters from the previous two series.

Life on Mars follows Manchester police officer Sam Tyler, played by John Simm, after he is transported from 2006 to the 1970s, while Ashes to Ashes sees his superior Gene Hunt, played by Philip Glenister, in a 1980s setting.