ASHES TO ASHES SET FOR SECOND SERIES ON BBC1

After a successful first series with millions of viewers police drama Ashes to Ashes is to return to BBC1 for a second series.

The BBC said it decided to commission another series following strong ratings and "fantastic" feedback from fans.

The opening episode saw audience figures of more than eight million and the rest of the series drew in roughly 6.5 million per episode.

Whether or not Gene Hunt (Philip Glenister) and Alex Drake (Keeley Hawes) will definitely return for more 80s crime solving is being kept under wraps.

"The 80s have had a real revival over the past few months; Ashes To Ashes seems to have captured the imagination of the nation," said Simon Crawford-Collins, executive producer and head of drama at Kudos, the company behind the show.

"I'm sure viewers will be desperate to know who's back in the second series but for now they'll just have to tune into the last episode of series one to find out."

Julie Gardner, BBC Wales head of drama, who commissioned the second series, says: "I'm delighted Ashes To Ashes will return to BBC1 next year.

"The series epitomises all that is great about BBC drama with its bold, confident storytelling and great characters. I can't wait for more blue eyeliner, Quattro cars and 80s music to burst on to our screens in 2009."

Filming of the second series will begin in the summer.



27/03/2008 19:09:16