Lewis to return for eighth series

Kevin Whately's character (centre) will be brought out of retirement in the new series

ITV's Inspector Morse spin-off Lewis is to return for an eighth series, despite seemingly ending last year.

The detective drama concluded last February with the two lead characters retiring, after stars Kevin Whately and Laurence Fox decided to leave the show.

However, ITV has commissioned six new hour-long episodes, which will see Insp Lewis and his assistant Hathaway drafted back into the force.

Production will begin next month, but no transmission date has been decided.

The seventh series ended with Det Sgt James Hathaway (Fox) quitting his job, wracked with guilt after a suspect he had questioned aggressively killed himself.

ITV said the new series would see the character return, newly promoted to inspector. After he fails to find a suitable new partner, his old colleague will be brought out of retirement.

Other actors reprising their roles in the new series include Clare Holman as forensic pathologist Laura Hobson and Rebecca Front as Chief Supt Jean Innocent.

"We're delighted ITV have commissioned series eight of Lewis," executive producer Michele Buck said.

"Since we started producing the series in 2006, Lewis has achieved a reputation for thought-provoking stories and we're determined to continue to set high standards."

ITV's director of drama Steve November added: "Viewers have a great deal of respect for Inspector Lewis and a huge loyalty to Kevin Whately.

"Together with Laurence, he has forged a formidable partnership and we're delighted to have them back on ITV."

Inspector Morse creator Colin Dexter will continue to serve as a production consultant on the drama.