They plan to make a spin-off set in a hospital.

Director of programmes Nigel Pickard has ordered three scripts and storyline ideas for a drama called Sun Hill General.

It will be set in and around the police soap’s hospital St Hugh’s. Characters such as PC Gabriel Kent, played by Todd Carty will cross between shows.

It will be the fourth Bill-related show, following Burnside, Beech On The Run and MIT.

ITV is keen to boost the 5pm to 6pm slot, once home to doomed soaps Crossroads and Night And Day.

Granada is also looking at spin-offs for Coronation Street and Emmerdale.

Head of drama John Whiston said: “We’d use familiar characters.”