Played by Benedict Cumberbatch, Sherlock has been named the favourite BBC TV character by a third of TV viewers surveyed.

The research was conducted in the lead up to BBC Worldwide Showcase. Over 7000 people aged 18 to 64 from Australia, France, USA, Germany, India, Japan and Mexico were asked to take part in the survey, which identified the most popular BBC TV character and most memorable scene from BBC television.

Sherlock was also voted as featuring the most memorable BBC TV moment, when the detective fell to his ‘death’ in the final episode of the second series. The Monty Python 'Dead Parrot' sketch came in second place.

Benedict Cumberbatch said: “I’m honoured to hear that my portrayal of Sherlock has been internationally recognised as viewers’ favourite BBC TV character. Who would have thought a high functioning sociopath could be so popular with people all over the world.”

Paul Dempsey, President of Global Markets at BBC Worldwide said: “This survey demonstrates the love and affection audiences have for our shows around the world and those defining TV moments that get viewers talking, wherever they are... international demand for British TV is as strong as ever.”