Line of Duty season 5: Creator Jed Mercurio confirms when fans can expect new episodes

The BBC crime procedural's showrunner says the next instalment won't air until 2019

Line of Duty drew to a dramatic close last night with revelations surrounding the fourth series' mysteries, including Balaclava Man and DCI Roz Huntley (Thandie Newton), all addressed (although the identity of the former remains unknown).

While the BBC crime procedural has been typically swift at returning since it began in 2012, creator Jed Mercurio has revealed that fans will have to wait a little longer than usual for the show's fifth run.

Speaking to The Mirror, Mercurio said: “The plan is we won’t shoot Line of Duty series five until next year and that means it won’t be on air until 2019.“

“I am not planning to write it until next year because I am working on [something else],“ he continued.

Mercurio also stated he'd like to ascertain the overall future of the series before cameras begin rolling on the next run.

The series follows AC-12, a fictional police squad assigned with uncovering corruption within the police force, comprised of DS Steve Arnott (Martin Compston), DC Kate Fleming (Vicky McClure) and Superintendant Ted Hastings (Adrian Dunbar).

Each instalment places a new character front and centre of their investigation with Lennie James, Keeley Hawes, Daniel Mays and Newton all playing the roles throughout the past four seasons.