The pyrrole-containing 1,1'-bis(bipyridyl)-substituted derivative of ferrocene L exhibits electrochemical recognition properties towards Cu-I and Ni-II in homogeneous solution. PolyL films synthesised by its oxidative electropolymerisation are able to coordinate Cu-I ions, whereas they do not display coordinating ability for Ni-II. In contrast, electropolymerisation of L in the presence of Cu-I or Ni-II ions readily obtain pre-structured metallated films. These films can be demetallated electrochemically, and then partially remetallated.