Filming for the latest series of ITV crime drama Grace will begin this spring.

The Brighton-based detective drama has been recommissioned for a fifth series, with John Simm returning as Detective Superintendent Roy Grace for another four feature-length films.

Based on the best-selling novels from renowned author Peter James, series five will comprise Dead If You Don’t, Dead At First Sight, Need You Dead and Find Them Dead.

Also reprising their roles for series five are Richie Campbell as DS Glenn Branson, Zoe Tapper as Cleo Morey, Laura Elphinstone as DS Bella Moy, Brad Morrison as DC Nick Nicholl and Sam Hoare as ACC Cassian Pewe.

Huw Kennair Jones, ITV’s drama commissioner, said: “We’re thrilled to be returning to Brighton and the world of Roy Grace and the team for another series of Peter James’ brilliant stories.

“Series five promises to deliver four more episodes full of surprises and intrigue that ITV audiences have come to love.”

Author Peter James has said it was a “dream come true” to see his books brought to life through the series.

He said: “It is both heartening and astounding to me that we’re already at series five.

“The continued success of Grace is a testament to the outstanding cast headed by John Simm, and crew and, equally importantly, the fans, who have loved and devoted their time to these characters both on the page and now the screen.

“It is also a testament to just how faithfully ITV have adhered to both the characters and stories in the novels.”

Production for the latest series will begin this spring.

Previous sites for filming have included Brighton Marina, the North Laine area of the city centre and Hove Lagoon.

Over 21 million copies of Peter James’ Grace novels have been sold to date with translations into 38 different languages.