ITV has confirmed that the first episode of Grace will air on Sunday, March 14 and Argus readers are thrilled by the news.

The eagerly anticipated crime drama was filmed at locations across Sussex last year.

It is based on the international best-selling book Dead Simple by Sussex author Peter James.

We asked Argus readers if they were excited to watch the series and the response was overwhelming.

Many expressed their joy that John Simm had been cast as Detective Roy Grace and said they had high hopes for his performance.

Jenny Taylor said: “I have read all the Roy Grace books and can’t wait for the TV series. John Simm will be great as Grace.”

Yvonne Marie Hughes agreed, writing: “I have all the books, and they are a brilliant read.

“Pure genius to cast John Simm, so excited, can’t wait.”

Fans of the novels said they were intrigued to see how the show would compare to the book.

Margaret Morbey said: “Can’t wait. I love all Peter James books so have high hopes for this.”

Last week, Peter said that he was “thrilled” with the adaptation after seeing a preview of the first episode.

Writing on social media, he said the series was “faithful” to the novel and that the cast were “terrific.”

He said: “A huge thanks to all involved with the production you have done such wonderful work bringing my characters to life and capturing the true texture of Brighton.”

Grace was filmed on location in Brighton during 2020 with executive producers Andrew O’Connor and Paul Sandler for Second Act Productions, Patrick Schweitzer for Tall Story Pictures, Michael Vine for Vaudeville Productions, Russell Lewis and Peter James.

The first film, Dead Simple, is directed by John Alexander (Belgravia, Trust Me, Jamestown).

A second Grace film, Looking Good Dead, directed by Julia Ford will air on ITV later this year.

The Argus has complied a handy guide to everything you need to know about the new drama >>> Click here to find out more