Father Brown star John Burton has shared his thoughts on the numerous cast changes the BBC One series has seen in recent years. The popular programme is back on TV screens with its twelfth series, which launched on 12 January.

Mark Williams is back as Father Brown, joined by fellow cast regulars including John Burton as Sergeant Daniel Goodfellow. Familiar faces such as Ruby-May Martinwood, who plays Brenda Palmer, and Claudie Blakley, who portrays Mrs Devine, have also reprised their roles.

The cast of Father Brown has undergone many changes over the course of the twelve series, with series 10 marking a big shift in the cast, as the likes of Sorcha Cusack, Alex Price and Jack Deam all exited their roles.

However, this led to Ruby-May and Claudie joining the cast, with Tom Chambers returning to the series as Inspector Sullivan after a lengthy hiatus.

Sergeant Goodfellow actor John has revealed how he felt about the huge changes to the cast, admitting he was "really worried" about the upheaval would impact the show. He recalled heading out for lunch with co-star Mark and opening up about his concerns.

Speaking with and other press, John admitted: "I was a bit concerned, I was really worried. And he said, 'No, the show needs a new breath of fresh air, and it will breathe new life into the show.'

"And he was absolutely right because they are fabulous.

"We miss the old cast, obviously, but the new cast came in, they hit the ground running, and they're a joy, an absolute joy. And it has made it a different feel, a different vibe, and it probably needed that."

Father Brown season 12 is jam-packed with drama, from Mrs Devine and Sullivan's nuptials to a shock murder accusation.

The official synopsis for the season says: "Following the exciting proposal at the end of series 11, the sleepy village of Kembleford is abuzz with good news as Mrs Devine (Claudie Blakley) and Chief Inspector Sullivan (Tom Chambers) look forward to their upcoming wedding.

"But when a surprise visit from the father of the groom quickly throws preparations into turmoil, will they even make it to the church?

"With a medieval death at a Tudor battle re-enactment, Mrs Devine finding herself accused of murder, Sergeant Goodfellow's professional future thrown into question and Brenda ballroom dancing on national television, Father Brown and the gang are busier than ever.

"And when a Cardinal from the Vatican arrives with a top-secret mission for Father Brown, the priest must request the help of his old adversary Flambeau, while a new nemesis lurks in the shadows..."

Father Brown continues on Friday 10 January at 2pm on BBC One and iPlayer.