“First of all we didn’t want it to be the same inspector, because it wouldn’t always be the same policeman, but once we hit on the idea, they always make sure it is ’cause Sherlock has to be ‘handled’. And really because Rupert is so good, and such a leading man that it really makes it feel as though there’s another series going on somewhere called Lestrade ... where he unsuccessfully solves crimes, then goes home to his wife: ‘Didn’t solve it again; it was rubbish’!”