MIDSOMER MURDERS RETURNS TO ITV THIS CHRISTMAS WITH NEW EPISODES

The much-loved primetime detective series returns ITV this Christmas with the first two episodes of its long-awaited 24th series.

 THE DEVIL'S WORK

The death of an ancient estate's patriarch leads to rivalry and murder when his rebellious son plans to sell it off, outraging his siblings.

 THE BOOK OF DEAD

When the author of a book that sparked a nationwide treasure hunt is found dead, Barnaby and Winter must unravel the cryptic clues to find the killer among a group of dedicated seekers.

Meanwhile, ITV have also commissioned a 25th and 26th series, which will invite viewers back to the picturesque yet surprisingly lethal English countryside for four new feature-length mysteries. Starring Neil Dudgeon as DCI Barnaby and Nick Hendrix as his trusted sidekick DS Winter, the series will also see the return of Annette Badland as pathologist Dr Fleur Perkins and Fiona Dolman as Barnaby’s wife Sarah.

ITV’s Drama Commissioner Huw Kennair Jones says: “We’re thrilled to be returning to Midsomer with Barnaby and Winter. Series 26 promises to deliver four brilliant brand new cases for the legion of Midsomer Murders fans to enjoy.”

Executive producer Michele Buck adds: “We are so pleased to be able to bring viewers more tales from the fascinating world of Midsomer Murders with this series 26 commission.”

Midsomer Murders returns later this month on ITV1.