Death in Paradise posts first look at newcomer Shantol Jackson as policewoman Naomi Thomas in series 11

DEATH in Paradise has shared the first images of Jamaican actress Shantol Jackson as newcomer Sergeant Naomi Thomas.

Shantol has joined the cast for series 11 for what producers have promised is their “best yet”.

The images show the new Sergeant in her Saint Marie police uniform as filming for the new series is underway on Guadaloupe.

The ambitious and gifted Naomi is joining the Honoré police force from a neighbouring island.

Despite her lack of experience she is keen to make her mark, as is actress Shantol who grew up watching the popular crime series.

Talking about her role, Shantol said on news of her casting: “I'm so grateful for this amazing opportunity to join the cast of this fun-filled, entertaining series.

“I used to watch Death in Paradise with my dad in Jamaica years ago when it just started and to now be in the show, knowing that he'll be watching me, it's truly a surreal moment. Looking forward to adding to the magic!"

Reprising their roles are series regulars Ralf Little as D.I. Neville Parker, Josephine Jobert as D.S Florence Cassell, Don Warrington as Commissioner Selwyn Patterson, Tahj Miles as Officer Marlon Pryce and Elizabeth Bourgine as Mayor Catherine Bordey.

The 10th-anniversary series averaged nearly nine million viewers.

Fans saw JP leave Saint Marie, trainee officer Marlon Pryce become a permanent member of the team, and Neville on the cusp of revealing his true feelings for Florence.

Producers have not only promised their best season yet, but have also dropped major clues that a former detective will be returning to the show.

Lead detective, Humphrey, played by Kris Marshall, could be set to make a comeback on the BBC show, and take back the role that has also been filled by DI Jack Mooney, played by Ardal O'Hanlon.

Executive producer Tim Key addressed the rumours of the drama's return next year, and speculated who would be fronting the detective team.

Speaking to the Express, he said of the upcoming series: "We’re so excited to be back in Guadeloupe and calling 'action' on our 11th series.

"We also can’t wait to share some huge surprises we’ve got in store - after the success of our 10th anniversary."

Not giving anything further away, the blurb for the upcoming episode reads: "Could the return of familiar faces to the island cause trouble in paradise?"

Humphrey could be a likely candidate as the first-ever detective to grace Sant Marie's shores, while DI Richard Poole (Ben Miller) already making a return in season ten.

The executive producer also "welcomed" Shantol to the cast and hailed her an "amazing addition".