Heartbeat's back for more

The long-running show's eighteenth series starts this Sunday, a month after ITV announced its production was being suspended.

The broadcaster, which declared a company loss of £2.73billion earlier this year, said the 60s show would be 'scaled back' to cut costs, sparking speculation of a full cancellation.

Thousands of fans from around the world signed a petition against the shows possible termination, but ITV continues to reassure viewers that the show is just taking a "rest."

Speaking to TV.com, a Heartbeat spokesperson confirmed: "Heartbeat has not been axed. It is an important part of the ITV schedule and is currently in production. Rather than stockpiling great numbers of episodes it has been decided to 'rest' production of the show for now."

Heartbeat, which first aired in 1992, begins its eighteenth series with a guest appearance from All the Small Things' David Fleeshman. The episode, entitled Return Crossing, will see the actor visit the residents of Aidensfield to reveal some shocking secrets about a recently deceased businessman.

Heartbeat returns on Sunday, April 19, at 8pm on ITV1. Will you be watching?