The finale of time-travelling detective show Life on Mars was seen by more than seven million people, unofficial overnight figures show.

Around 6.6 million watched the first half hour, with the audience growing to 7.7 million once Manchester United’s Champions League clash ended on ITV1.

Fans of the drama finally found out how modern-day policeman Sam Tyler, played by John Simm, ended up in the 1970s.

A sequel has already been announced, with the action moving to the 1980s.

The average audience for Tuesday’s show was seven million - the highest figure for the entire second series.

“We’re delighted so many people tuned in to see how Sam Tyler turned out,” said a BBC spokeswoman.

Producers had promised a “natural and explosive climax”, but filmed two separate endings “to keep everyone guessing”.