The hit ITV drama, which is filmed in the Scarborough and Whitby area, has returned for a further run of 15 episodes after a short break.

Upcoming plots involve an annual village fox hunt and an accident at a farm.

Former Emmerdale series producer Kathleen Beedles is set to take over the show as it prepares for its 18th series.

She will succeed Archie Tait who has been the show’s producer for the last four series,

During his time on the programme Tait introduced Jonathan Kerrigan as PC Rob Walker and cast Joe McFadden as lead cop PC Joe Mason.

He also brought together long serving characters Gina Ward and Phil Bellamy, who later died after being shot.

Tair cast former Coronation Street star Nikki Sanderson, who will appear on screens as Bellamy’s niece later this year.

He will produce Heartbeat until May when the filming of series 17 is complete.

He said: “I have had a fantastic four years I’m very proud of what the show has achieved. I’m delighted to hand over the reins to Kathleen Beedles, I know Heartbeat will be in safe hands.”

Beedles worked on Emmerdale from January 2005 to December 2007.

She said: “I’ve always loved Heartbeat and am looking forward to building on the success of the past 17 years.”