A CHANNEL 4 drama series featuring scenes filmed in Penarth aired its first episode earlier this week, earning rave reviews from critics.

The debut episode of ‘Kiri’ was screened on Wednesday (January 10) and received widespread praise, with the Daily Express calling it "gritty and compelling" and The Spectator saying it was shaping up to be "one of the TV highlights of the winter."

The four-part series, which will air each Wednesday throughout the rest of January, has been made with backing from the Welsh Government and has been filmed in south east Wales.

Various streets in Penarth are featured extensively in the series, as is Llandough Hospital. Scenes filmed in Cardiff, Pontypool and Merthyr are also included.

The programme, which stars acclaimed actress Sarah Lancashire (Happy Valley, Last Tango in Halifax) as a social worker, centres on the abduction of a young girl in her care named Kiri.

The drama was produced by The Forge, who made the decision to film in South East Wales after successfully applying for Welsh Government business finance to part fund the drama.

Culture minister Lord Elis-Thomas said: "Early indications suggest that 2017 was one of Wales’ best ever for TV and film production and I am delighted that that we are beginning 2018 with the broadcast of a quality and high calibre drama such as Kiri.

"During 2018 we will work hard to build on this successful record and continue to build Wales’ reputation as a premium filming location with much to offer."