The start date has been confirmed the final season of Inspector George Gently.

Created by Peter Flannery and originally based on the Gently novels by Alan Hunter, Inspector George Gently first aired in April 2007 and 23 episodes have been made so far.

Buy the complete Season 1-7 box set on Amazon here.

Two new feature-length films began filming on location in Durham and the North East in January.

The first of these will air at 8.30pm on Sunday 21 May on BBC One.

The official synopsis for ‘Gently Liberated’ reads: “The North East, 1970. On the brink of retirement, DCI Gently and his team investigate a body found in a chemical waste tank. “When Gently discovers the victim’s wife was convicted of the murder eight years ago, he decides to re-open the case – a controversial move. But DI Bacchus opposes Gently’s decision, not least because he worked as a DS on the original investigation – putting mentor and protégé at complete odds.

“Is Gently about to expose an appalling miscarriage of justice, or will he sacrifice his reputation and legacy for a convicted murderer? And can Rachel help heal the widening rift between her superiors, whilst navigating being a woman in a professional male world? Finally, will the team finally prove beyond doubt the identity of the killer?”

Martin Shaw, who has played Gently for a decade, commented earlier this year: “It’s wonderful to be coming back to the show. We’re a very happy and close company, and working with such friends is a joy. I’m excited at being able to bring the series to a proper finale, a farewell that befits such a popular series.”

Guest stars in Season 8 will include Richard Harrington (Poldark), Adam Levy (Before I go to Sleep), Steven Robertson (Shetland), Anamaria Marinca (Fury) and Victoria Bewick (Call the Midwife).

Are you looking forward to the final season? Let us know below…