ITV has announced a brand new crime drama, that’ll see Martin Clunes on the trail of a serial killer.

It’s called Manhunt, and is based on the memoirs of London police detective DCI Colin Sutton. Ed Whitmore has adapted the books for the screen, and Clines will take on the role of Sutton. The drama will focus on his pursuit of serial killer Levi Bellfield. What’s more, it’s now been revealed that the drama has started filming this week.

ITV has issued a press announcement, which includes an overview of the story. It reads as follows:

Manhunt is the real life story of how the murder of French National, Amelie Delagrange, on Twickenham Green in August 2004 was eventually linked to the murders of Marsha McDonnell in 2003 and the abduction and murder of Milly Dowler as she travelled home from school in 2002.

Walking home following a night out with friends, 22 years old Amelie was savagely attacked and struck several times on the back of the head with a hammer.

Although relatively experienced in murder investigation, DCI Sutton was assigned to the case by London’s Metropolitan Police.  Hard working and instinctive, Sutton dedicated himself to finding Amelie’s killer. With very little evidence, his painstaking approach and the diligence of his fellow officers gradually led to breakthroughs in the case. 

Not to be underestimated, Sutton never ruled out similarities to the murders of Marsha McDonnell and Milly Dowler in the same southwest corner of London despite superior officers refusing to make the connection.

Marc Evans is directing this one, and we’re expecting it on our screens at the end of the year.