Sherlock season 4 episode 3: Preview screening generates overwhelming fan reaction

The finale of the BBC series' latest season airs this weekend

Fans will likely have a long wait ahead before they can see their favourite detective duo in action again

UPDATE: The below tweet suggesting audience members were not shown the episode's final four minutes is reportedly incorrect.

This Sunday (15 January) sees the latest season of Sherlock draw to a close after a controversial run of episodes that has seen shock deaths and unexpected twists.

A lucky number of fans were granted the opportunity to see the finale at a preview screening - and their response has been as feverish as you'd expect.

If the reaction is anything to go by, the episode - titled 'The Final Problem' and co-written by showrunners Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss - will leave fans with an agonising wait for new episodes (especially if this theory is to be believed).

Even more excitingly, the screening - which took place at the BFI - didn't include the final four minutes meaning the outcome of season four will undoubtedly throw a curve ball the way of its audience.

Sherlock stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman and this year saw the introduction of a brand new villain played by Toby Jones.

The series concludes its fourth season on BBC One at 9pm this Sunday. For the lowdown on what shows to binge once it's over, you can find our 2017 TV preview here.