Crime writer Lynda La Plante’s seminal detective, Jane Tennison, is to be revived by ITV in a Prime Suspect prequel set in 1970’s London.

The 6 x 60 drama, Tennison, is based on La Plante’s forthcoming novel of the same name, and follows the eponymous policewman as she starts her career as a young probationary officer in the Met.

The show comes from Noho Film and Television, the indie founded by Robert Wuff-Cochrane and Camilla Campbell, and the author’s production company, La Plante Global. It will air in 2016 to tie in the 25th anniversary of the hugely successful and long running Prime Suspect.

La Plante said of the commission: “I have very much enjoyed writing the young Jane, creating her family background and the start of her career in the police force. I do hope my readers will enjoy meeting her in September and viewers in 2016.”

Prequels are standing networks in very good stead at the moment, providing more material for an established brand, while revealing a back story and characterisation which often explains more about the protagonist when portrayed in their later life, such as Endeavour and Morse.

From 19 June, subscribers to Production Intelligence can follow this project to receive updates as more specifics are confirmed over the coming months.