
The Greater Manchester Police Force. Fighting crime, locking up perpetrators, filing paperwork and getting the job done. But Scott and Bailey is more than just a cop show – with a cast of strong female leads, sharp storylines and the epitome of high quality British drama you know you should be watching.

The show’s namesakes Janet Scott and Rachel Bailey are close friends with very different personalities. Lesley Sharp plays Detective Constable Janet Scott: a mother of two, fifty, separated (following an affair with a colleague). She is a strong member of the team, with years of experience, however has added stress from her family situation which leads her to turn down the Detective Sergeant position at the start of series four.

Slick and professional this show is going from strength to strength, with nominations such as the BAFTA TV award for Best Drama Series. Character development is second to none and the connection between the cast and their hold over the TV audience is at times magical. And every episode gives you a tour of Greater Manchester – what’s not to love! Show creator Sally Wainwright has successfully created a drama celebrating women in television and the police force. The season three finale was arguably one of the most dramatic hostage situations on television involving a serial killers daughter and DCI Gill Murray, a road pursuit and a cliff. Intrigued yet?
With six episodes per season it is easy to digest and extremely satisfying to watch. Season four is currently airing on ITV1 Wednesday night at 9pm – go on, give it a try.

What do you think of Scott & Bailey?
Will you be watching the new series?
Let us know in the comments!