Crookhaven, featuring Coronation Street star Julie Hesmondhalgh and Vigil's Dougray Scott, has been given a confirmed released date on the BBC – and it's coming to screens soon!

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Billed as a "gripping mystery", the eight-part family-friendly drama from Northern Ireland Screen is based upon the beloved children's books of the same name by JJ Arcanjo.

In a secret academy for crooks, students – or Crooklings as they are dubbed – train in forgery, lock-picking and deception to "do wrong" for the right reasons, with the ultimate goal of restoring balance to the world.

The first episode will air at 3:05pm on Sunday 22 March on BBC One with a second episode to follow after at 3:50pm. The entire series will be released on BBC iPlayer at the same time.

According to the synopsis, we'll be introduced to a "group of eight very different, young international students as they go head to head in the competition for the infamous Crooked Cup – all while battling a terrifying enemy, The Nameless".

Julie Hesmondhalgh stars in Crookhaven; in this close-up shot, her character is wearing casual clothes at her home and looking worried at someone ahead of her.
Julie Hesmondhalgh stars in Crookhaven BBC Studios

The series will primarily follow the character of "pickpocketing genius" Gabriel, played by newcomer Lucas Leach, and his "arch-rival" Penelope (Carmel Laniado), who happens to be the headmaster's daughter.

The 13-year-old Gabriel has spent his life using his pickpocketing skills to survive and upon being caught is offered a place at the school by the mysterious headmaster, Caspian Lockett, rather than being arrested for his crimes.

Dougray Scott stars in Crookhaven. In this close-up shot, he is wearing a black tuxedo with a bow tie and looking defiantly at someone.
Dougray Scott stars in Crookhaven BBC Studios

Scott takes on the role of Lockett, while Hesmondhalgh plays Grandma Sue, and there are also parts for Keith Allen (Trainspotting, Bodies) and Claire Forlani (Industry, Domina).

The up and coming younger cast members assembled to form Crookhaven's student body include Amari Bacchus (Adolescence), Leila Khan (Heartstopper) and Charlie Mann (Lazarus).

Crookhaven is coming BBC One and iPlayer at 3:05pm and 3:50pm on Sunday 22 March.

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Authors

Phoebe Kowhai BarnesFreelance Writer

Phoebe Kowhai Barnes is a Freelance Writer who covers pop culture and entertainment programmes for the Radio Times. She previously worked as the Senior Assistant Editor at The Tab where she managed its local department. She obtained a BA (Hons) in English Literature from University of Nottingham.

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