The BBC has decided not to commission a third series of the daytime drama The Coroner which was largely filmed in the South Hams.

A statement issued by the corporation said: “After two fantastic series, The Coroner won’t be returning as we look for opportunities to bring through new programmes for the BBC1 daytime audience. We’d like to thank the brilliant cast and production team for all of their hard work.”

Series creator Sally Abbot tweeted: “We’re all devastated. It was a show made with love and we’re so so proud of it.”

She added: “…international sales have been great as has press coverage… Utterly baffling.”

Star Clare Goose, who played the part of coroner Jane Kennedy, tweeted: “We are all devastated at this decision.”

Co-star Matt Bardock, Detective Sergeant Davey Higgins in the series, tweeted: “It’s been hugely successful so the decision has left us a bit dumbfounded! Very sad!”

Grace Hogg-Robinson, who played Jane’s daughter Beth, said: “We’re all gutted, it has been an absolute pleasure to be a part of and one of the best experiences of my life. All of the people both on screen and off are absolute gems – thank you for the best two years.”

And Beatie Edney, Jane’s mum Judith in the drama, tweeted: “Just heard there won’t be a third series of #TheCoroner on @BBCOne. As it’s been so successful it seems a shame.’

As fans of the series expressed their outrage over the decision, she added: ‘Thanks to all the lovely #TheCoroner fans who’ve expressed their sadness at no third series. @BBCOne might be interested to know.”

One fan Lydgia Parratt, who has launched a petition on the Change.org website aiming to reverse the decision, said: “The gentle storytelling of The Coroner centres on a beautiful location in the south of England.

“People care for each other, there’s friendships and integrity.

The acting is excellent as are the scripts and the stories. The BBC are making a mistake by not filming a third series. 

“The BBC once again need to justify the decisions they make. 

“Let’s help them change their minds!”

Another fan, John Wallace, tweeted: “Appalling decision. Good grief BBC, what on earth are you thinking???”

And Susan Northwood said: “Absolute madness #thecoroner axed. Brilliant drama. Brilliant cast. Gutted.”