Holby City fans fume as BBC drama reveals major schedule change after lockdown

HOLBY City fans have been left fuming as the BBC drama reveals a major schedule change after lockdown.

The series had to halt filming alongside many other shows earlier this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

While production has resumed, fans have been left furious after it was revealed the new episodes will be shorter in length.

Holby City episodes are normally an hour long, but now they will be 40 minutes each.

Taking to Twitter to air their frustrations, one fan wrote: "Why is it being cut to 40 mins? Hardly worth watching if this happens."

Another tweeted a crying emoji and wrote simply: "40 MINUTES".

A third added: "Is that 40 mins to start with, then eventually 1 hr episodes?"

As well as the change in episode length, it has also been revealed the show will feature storylines relating to covid-19.

Kate Oates, Head of Continuing Drama at BBC Studios explained: "It's with great pleasure that we open the doors at Elstree to welcome back the exceptional cast and crew of Holby City.

"We have some gripping stories to tell as we explore how the lives of our characters have been irrevocably changed since the start of the pandemic – and how our heroes battle against the odds, come what may."

Holby City was able to return to filming at the North London studios after the production team developed comprehensive protocols to ensure it made in a safe and responsible manner.

The cast and crew will adhere to Government guidelines on social distancing to make sure everyone remains safe on set.

Holby City airs at 8pm on Tuesdays on BBC One.