The Larkins: Can 2021 Kent classic compete with original?

WATCH Malcolm Stuart's report on the new drama- and hear from its star Bradley Walsh

Would you believe it's thirty years since "The Darling Buds of May" became one of  ITV's most popular comedy dramas. 

Set in the idyllic Kent countryside in the late 1950s, the stories follow the working-class Larkin family comprising kind-hearted wheeler dealer Pop Larkin and his wife Ma, together with their six children.

The original adaptation of HE Bates' novel became a huge hit, starring David Jason and Pam Ferris, and launching the career of Catherine Zeta-Jones.

The new adaptation aims to channel the nostalgia once more, with Bradley Walsh and Joanne Scanlan taking over the iconic roles of Pop and Ma, and Sabrina Bartlett playing their headstrong daughter Mariette.

Bradley Walsh said of his role: "I'm thrilled to be asked to be part of this much loved and iconic series of stories.

"The warmth and affection that H. E Bates has generated through his books is so uplifting and I cannot wait to be part of the Larkin family. It'll be a hoot! "

The Larkins is on ITV1 on Sunday at 8pm