Broadchurch series 3 begins filming, Sir Lenny Henry joins cast

It'll be the ITV series' third and final instalment

(Kudos/ITV (Kudos/ITV)

Popular ITV series Broadchurch has just begin filming its third and final series with a suitably eclectic cast in tow.

Alongside original cast members Olivia Colman and David Tennant - who'll reprise their roles of Detectives Miller and Hardy - it has been confirmed that Sir Lenny Henry will appear in the mystery crime series.

No details are currently known about any of the final series' new characters other than they'll be played by Sarah Parish, Roy Hudd and former Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondalgh.

While the first two instalments focused on the murder of young Danny Latimer, series three is said to be surrounding a sexual assault investigation. Official organisations based in the show's shooting location of Dorset have been heavily assisting in the scriptwriting process.

"Broadchurch's final chapter looks at the emotional cost to all of those involved and the irreparable damage to friendships and relationships," said ITV.

Also returning for the final series are Arthur Darvill (vicar Paul Coates), Carolyn Pickles (newspaper editor Maggie Radcliffe) as well as Jodie Whittaker and Andrew Buchan who played the role of Danny's bereaved parents, Beth and Mark

Once Broadchurch ends, the show's creator Chris Chibnall will be departing ITV for rival channel BBC where he'll replace Steven Moffat as the head writer of Doctor Who.

Despite the second series' dip in quality following its hugely acclaimed debut, Chibnall remains optimistic.

"I hope it's a compelling and emotional farewell to a world and show that means so much to me."

Broadchurch is expected to air early 2017.