Lesley Sharp

It's the sense of normality that is most striking as we meet the family at the heart of this gentle new comedy drama, executive produced by Steve Coogan. Set in Derbyshire, it follows the cramped lives of electrician Terry (Brendan Coyle), wife Jan (Lesley Sharp), their three children and Grandad (Alan Williams). The pilot begins with daughter Bell (Rebecca Night) giving birth at home.

A quick chat with Lesley Sharp

Scott & Bailey's Lesley Sharp talks about her role in the new Sky1 comedy drama Starlings...

If you're on the lookout for a heart-warming family drama, then Starlings could be just the thing for you. A strong cast of familiar faces - Downton Abbey's Brendan Coyle, Scott & Bailey's Lesley Sharp and more - breathe life into the Starlings, a loveable working-class clan. Believe it or not, this gentle series was created by none other than Matt King - Peep Show's Super Hans - along with writing partner Steve Edge, and Steve Coogan is also on board as a producer, so there's a strong pedigree behind the show. Starlings is perfect viewing for a sleepy Sunday evening.

The cab office-based sitcom returns for its second series. The employees of Irwell Cars are engaged in a ferocious turf war with their principal rivals, Pat the Butchers Cars. The conflict involves making fake calls, flattening tyres and other dastardly antics. Today, Lind (Lesley Sharp), the radio operator, tries to charm the unsavoury and all-powerful licensing officer, while Dave's (]Phil Rowson) marriage plans are complicated by an encounter with a former lover. The series features guest appearances from Mark E. Smith, Suranne Jones and James Quinn.