I'm really enjoying him as I think he's a great addition to the older cast. I didn't watch the show when he was in it, but I've researched about him and he does seem to be a good character.

What's confused me is I thought he was only coming in for a short while? Is he a regular now or will he be leaving? I for one hope he stays.

I think it is believed that he will leave at or just after Christmas.

He should Stay on.

I think its a short stint.

Totally agree, I've really enjoyed having him back on the show.
And it's fitting that he should be there with this now sudden resurgence of the Fowlers.

I would like to see him as a recurring character.
It was sad listening to him talk about his partner last night.
Very common I would imagine that especially at this time of year, a lot of elderly gay men are alone, having lost a partner and perhaps have very little in the way of family.

I think he's only appearing as part of the xmas show story, I agree though he has been a good addition and I'd like to see him stay Patrick could do with some friends.

Les and Pam were a great addition to the older cast

Sorry he's not staying. It was only last night they showed him away from the community centre. It would have been good to have shown him integrating more, i.e. In the pub, the market or the cafe.

I like Derek too, it's good to see him back.

According to the BBC website he's credited until the 29th December and then no more after that. It was confirmed that it was only a guest stint.

But I'd imagine if he goes down well with the writers/viewers that he could return again in the new year for more guest stints or even a regular role?

I wouldn't have remembered him from his first stint as I was too young but I have enjoyed the character and could really see a regular place for him on the square, plus his onscreen friendship with Patrick is great and would love to see more of it , with both Jim and Charlie dead Patrick doesn't really have that elderly male friend figure on the square anymore.