Scripted

The BBC has unveiled first-look pictures for The Last Detectives, formerly known as Old Town Murders, a new crime drama set against the Pembrokeshire coastline and starring Mark Lewis-Jones, Steffan Rhodri, Bethan-Mary James, Jordan Davies, Julie Graham and Catherine Ayers. Written, created and executive produced by Matthew Barry (Men Up, The Guest), the six-part series is produced by award-winning Quay Street Productions for BBC iPlayer and BBC One in a co-commission with BBC Cymru Wales.

The newly released images introduce the team of detectives at the centre of the story as they investigate a succession of murder cases in Tenby. Leading the team are DI Glyn Walsh (Mark Lewis Jones) and DS Sion Dearden (Steffan Rhodri), investigative partners whose instinctive understanding of one another becomes key as they navigate complex cases, unexpected twists and long-buried secrets beneath the town’s picturesque surface. They are joined by DC Remy Jones (Bethan Mary-James), DC Neil Miller (Jordan Davies) and forensic biologist Pamela Thomas (Julie Graham). Set against the backdrop of the Pembrokeshire coastline, The Last Detectives will see each case unfold across two episodes, while the drama explores themes of new beginnings and second chances as the team faces fresh challenges, personal crossroads and truths that refuse to remain buried.

Welsh-born writer and executive producer Matthew Barry says “I’m beyond excited to be reteaming with Quay Street and the BBC to bring The Last Detectives to the screen. It’s a story about finding friendship and meaning in later life, through the lens of a thrilling police procedural. I can’t wait for audiences to fall in love with Sion, Glyn and the stunning backdrop of Tenby.”

Described as a crime series combining wit and humour with a strong character focus, The Last Detectives follows two detectives finding a new beginning after being brought together by circumstance. Davina Earl (Men Up, The Guest) and BAFTA-winner Nicola Shindler (Fool Me Once, Tip Toe, The Blame) serve as executive producers for Quay Street Productions, part of ITV Studios. Rebecca Ferguson is executive producer for the BBC and co-commissioner alongside Nick Andrews for BBC Wales. Guy Hescott (Run Away, The Red King) is series producer. The series is made in association with and will be distributed internationally by ITV Studios.
The Last Detectives has received Welsh Government support via Creative Wales. The series was filmed in Tenby, Cardiff and along the South Wales Coastline.