'The Bill' films £500k car crash scenes

The Bill producers have splashed out a six-figure sum on a dramatic car crash stunt, a report claims.

A future episode of the ITV1 police drama sees a vehicle exploding into flames following a chase involving its driver and Sun Hill cops.

Following the crash, Sgt Callum Stone (Sam Callis) and PC Nate Roberts (Ben Richards) battle against the clock to rescue the trapped motorist.

According to The Sun, the tense scenes cost £500,000 to film. It is believed that the show's chiefs are hoping to grab viewers as part of The Bill's relaunch as a post-watershed drama.

The programme's first 9pm episode aired on July 23. Actress Ali Bastian (PC Sally Armstrong) has already promised "more landmarks and stunts", as well as "gritty" storylines.

The Bill's crash scenes will be screened later this year.