Tom Brittney is to join the cast of 'Grantchester'.

Tom Brittney

Tom Brittney

The 'Call The Midwife' star will him appear in the upcoming fourth series of ITV's detective drama as Reverend Will Davenport.

He said: "I am beyond excited. From the moment I heard about the role of Will Davenport, it was something I wanted more than anything.

"It's a real honour to be joining such a wonderful series, with such a loyal fan base."

But James Norton will leave behind the part of charismatic clergyman Sidney Chambers - and he's set to make his final appearance during the next series.

He said: "As excited as I am to be filming a new series of 'Grantchester', it's also heartbreaking to be saying goodbye to Sidney Chambers.

"I've loved this experience, and particularly working with such an extraordinary cast and crew. All the best to the fantastic Tom Brittney in his role as the new vicar. He is a wonderful addition to the 'Grantchester' family."

The next season is currently in production with filming taking part in London, Cambridge and the village of Grantchester itself.

New parish priest Davenport will put his energy into a quest for social justice, and ITV has described him as "a man of God, but with the devil inside of him", and teased a "troubled past" waiting to be unearthed.

Diederick Santer, Kudos executive producer, said: "I'm delighted that Tom is joining the cast. He's a hugely likeable and talented actor, and will make both a fine vicar of Grantchester and a great crime-solving partner for Geordie Keating [Robson Green]."