Actor Tom Chambers joined the BBC detective drama Father Brown as Inspector Sullivan in 2014, but chose to leave following two series.

Whilst he appeared in occasional guest spots throughout the years, it was not until 2023 that the popular character returned on a permanent basis, delighting viewers across the country.

During the most recent episode of Alan Titchmarsh's Love Your Weekend (December 21), the actor discussed why he originally departed, admitting he requested to return almost straight away. The star has now revealed an exciting development regarding his involvement beyond the programme.

Alan noted that Tom was there from the show's inception before his departure, with the actor explaining: "When I joined, I thought, 'Hang on a minute, all I do is get it wrong!' If you see me driving off with someone in the back of a car, you know they're innocent."

He continued: "I just thought I've got too much energy for this, I need to be jumping out of windows and things like that.

"Then, as soon as I left, I wrote every year for seven years because I realised what a gorgeous job it was."

The 48-year-old revealed to Alan that he approached producers about returning, but due to a one in, one out policy, he was forced to wait, reports Gloucestershire Live.

He concluded: "I'm very lucky to be back, and it's such a lovely group of people, it's now becoming quite a guilty pleasure for a younger audience as well as a mature audience."

Emotions ran high at the conclusion of series 12 as viewers witnessed Inspector Sullivan tie the knot with Mrs Devine (portrayed by Claudie Blakley).

The long-awaited return of the cherished series is nearly here, with series 13 scheduled to broadcast on BBC One from January 9.

A synopsis for the forthcoming episodes reveals: "Following the jubilant wedding celebrations at the end of series 12, the new Mr and Mrs Sullivan settle into married life and a new home, with Isabel thrilled to be welcomed into the Policeman's Wives Society.

"Meanwhile, Brenda goes on a journey of self-empowerment as she covers the role of Parish Secretary and learns to drive with the help of Sergeant Goodfellow.

"Father Brown is tasked by Flambeau to visit Father Lazarus in prison, resulting in a deadly game of cat and mouse which ruffles the feathers of Canon Fox.

"With his consecration now looming, Bishop-Elect Fox plans to enact his revenge upon Father Brown, leaving Kembleford changed forever. And in a Father Brown first - the group take a trip to the seaside!"

Father Brown is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.