ITV are cutting police drama, The Bill, to just one episode per week later this year.

The show currently airs twice a week in an 8PM time slot but will soon be moved to a later slot of 9pm. This will allow more gritty storylines and action packed episodes according to show bosses.

Peter Fincham, ITV’s Director of Television, said “I’m delighted to announce The Bill’s transition to a weekly 9pm drama on ITV1. It’s a fantastic opportunity to take the series to another level, marking a new era for one of the most established brands on British television.”

And Lorraine Heggessey, CEO, added: “This is a huge vote of confidence from ITV in the show and is a genuine first on UK television. We are incredibly proud of the show and we look forward to embracing the new opportunities this will bring.”