Dudgeon confirmed for 'Midsomer Murders'

Neil Dudgeon has been confirmed to replace John Nettles in ITV1 drama Midsomer Murders.

The Life of Riley star is to make a brief first appearance as DCI Tom Barnaby's cousin DCI John Barnaby tomorrow, before taking on the role full-time in July.

Nettles quit last February following 13 years on the programme.

The veteran actor told The Sun: "I wanted to die in noble fashion in the service of my country and then be buried with full military honours in Westminster Abbey. In the event, Tom and his long-suffering wife Joyce will simply retire. It's always better to leave when people want more."

He continued: "It has been a joy to be involved in such a long-running series, with so many good actors and great storylines. If Neil has half the good times that I have had on Midsomer then he will be in seventh heaven. I am only worried that he is much younger than I am and a much better actor."

Dudgeon admitted that he is feeling the pressure ahead of having to replace Nettle, adding: "John is a fantastic ambassador for the series. He makes it look very effortless and easy and I admire that.

"Big movie stars like Spencer Tracy are charismatic yet always point to the story rather than to themselves. John is like that, too. He does an understated beautiful job of guiding the viewer through without being flashy. I admire him enormously."