Get the biggest stories sent straight to your inbox Sign up for regular updates and breaking news from WalesOnline Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

In a major boost to the creative industries sector in Wales the next series of popular BBC drama Sherlock will be filmed in South Wales, it is understood.

Filming on the fourth series will start in the spring and be aired next year.

Previous series have been filmed in studios and on location in South Wales.

However, the successful Christmas special, was shot in studios and on in location in Bristol.

Read more: How do the cities of Bristol and Cardiff compare?

The drama, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr Watson, is expected to be filmed at Pinewood Studio Wales on the outskirts of Cardiff at Wentloog.

Related content : Pinewood Group considers sale option

Location filming will also take place in South Wales.

The studio complex, which Pinewood rents from the Welsh Government, has 70,000 sq ft of shooting space, including two 20,000 sq st stages.

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

The project is expected to receive financial assistance from the Welsh Government, which has a £30m media investment fund.

In a statement the BBC said: "It's too early to confirm filming details of the new series of Sherlock."

Related content:Filming of His Dark Materials 'could bring £100m' in benefits to Wales claim producers behind project

The production company behind Sherlock is London-based Hartswood Film, which also has an office in Cardiff.