'Extraordinary’ ITV war drama based on true story is hailed a ‘must watch’ series

Period drama lovers have been raving about a beloved ITV television series which fans have hailed a “must watch” series. The World War II drama series The Bletchley Series is based on the women who worked at Bletchley Park during the Second World War, who played a vital role in codebreaking, operating machinery, and translating documents. Approximately 7,500 women worked at the central site for crypanalysts but dur to the strict rules of the Official Secrets Act 1939 they never shared the nature of their contributrions to the crucial aspects of the allies’ victory.

The ITV series, which fans can watch for free on U, is set between 1952 and 1953 and revolves around four women who previously worked as codebreakers at Bletchley Park. Dissatisfied with the police’s handling of certain high profile murder cases, they form a clandesting group, known as The Bletchley Circle.

Leading the charge is Susan Gray (played by Anna Martin) who rangles up her three friends Camilla ‘Millie’ Harcourt (Rachael Stirling), Lucy (Sophie Rundle) and Jean McBrian (Julie Graham)

They use their unique skills in code-breaking and pattern recognition to solve crimes all under the noses of the police. The series explores the challenges they faces as women in 1950s Britain, particularly in their efforts to be taken serioously by law enforcement and the broader society.

The original series was filming in the historic setting of Bletchley Park where the codebreakers really worked during the war. ITV’s Director of Drama Commissioning Steve November said at the time: “We’re delighted that it’s returning to ITV with two new and exciting stories”.

But in 2014, the two series programme was axed despite the backlash from loyal fans online. Despite its departure, the series has been widely praised by fans online, with one user writing: “Another great British spy/drama series, albeit too short!

“Although only 2 seasons, this female-based quartet of amateur sleuths is a must-see! I have re-watched it a few time and never tire of the right dialogue, great characters, and excellent acting by all in this show.”

Another gushed: “Excellent series, currently re-watching it and enjoying it the second time around. Excellent acting, costumes and set in good locations. Clever plot and great to see the emphasis on the contribution that women made during the Second World War.”

Awarding it five stars, a third gushed: "A polished piece of TV entertainment. A girl band 'Sherlock' crime drama set in post-war 50s Britain. Great acting, convincing set and costume designs, quality choreography."