Every Gavin and Stacey character that didn't appear in last night's finale as fans notice someone missing

Gavin and Stacey returned to screens last night after an excruciating five year wait, but some of the most beloved faces from the cast were notably missing.

The British sitcom, co-written James Corden and Ruth Jones, first premiered in 2007 (sorry to make you feel old).

The series follows the lives of Essex native Gavin (Matthew Horne) and Welsh Stacey (Joanna Page), who fall in love and introduce each other to their respective families.

Spanning 2007-2010, the show returned for a Christmas special in 2019 before returning again last night.

The show features many iconic faces, including Rob Brydon (Bryn) and James Corden (Smithy).

But fans were quick to notice many faces they've come to love over the years were absent...

Dick Powell

Played by Gwynfor Roberts, the iconic character only appeared in two episodes but left a lasting impression in the viewers' minds.

Dick was famed for only being able to speak Welsh, and featured as a salesman made famous for supplying Bryn and co with stolen items, from Sat-Navs to barbecue meats.

He was meant to make a return, but Corden and Jones were unable to retain him.

Jones said during an early screening of the special: "I think in the original script we had Dick Powell. There just wasn’t room for him, God bless him."

Deano

The character, played by Matthew Baynton, sadly didn't make an appearance in the return.

Known for being one of Smithy's friends, Deano is somewhat of a dimwit who works as a builder and is very much one of the boys.

Deano was iconic (BBC)

The Vicar

Father Chris is an angry religious figure who usually spent his scenes enjoying a cigarette before performing wedding services.

A memorable moment of his was him not being to get Gavin to tell him what kind of sandwich he likes.

Nessa's dad

Portrayed by Neil Jenkins, Nessa's pap (Ifan Huw Dafydd) appeared in scenes at baby Neil's Christening but has a mysterious back story that leaves him uncomfortable about being back in Barry.

Owain simply made no sense (BBC)

Marco

Johnny Tudor played Marco in a single episode of season three, and he's not the most memorable character, but I'm sure some people out there were missing his face.

Owain Hughes

Steven Meo played Owain, who served as a red herring.

Gavin tells Owain during a shift at his job in Cardiff: "Hi, nice to meet you. [I'm] Gavin Shipman,"

Owain replies: "Owain Hughes. And before you ask, no I don't!"

The joke left people confused - but that was the point. According to the actor, it meant absolutely nothing. He does however get a fleeting mention from Gavin.

Doris was a legend (BBC)

Doris (RIP)

Played by Margaret John, Doris was known for her saucy and sexy quips and being the neighbour to Stacey's family.

Sadly, John passed away in 2011, aged 84. Remembering her, Page said during an episode of Barry Island Discs: “Working with Maggie John has got to be one of the highlights of Gavin & Stacey. I just love how her character got bigger and worse and saucier and sexier as the series went on.”