The former Morse detective series star made an unexpected appearance at the theatrical production, reuniting with the cast members.

The 75-year-old performer, who achieved fame as Sergeant Robbie Lewis in the original ITV detective drama, has long been familiar to Oxford viewers.

He later returned to the character in the spin-off series Lewis, named after his famous on-screen detective role.

The veteran actor attended a performance of the Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts live show on Thursday evening, surprising the company.

Tom Chambers portrays Inspector Morse in the production.

A representative from Milton Keynes Theatre confirmed that the acclaimed performer was present for the Thursday evening show.

Following the curtain call, the actor went backstage where he received a warm welcome and posed for pictures to commemorate the occasion.

The encounter united the heritage of the classic television franchise with the fresh stage interpretation currently touring the country.

His visit generated additional enthusiasm for the performers, who were pleased to share the moment with someone so intrinsically linked to the Morse universe.

The theatrical production, featuring Tom Chambers as Morse and Tachia Newall as Lewis, premiered in Oxford earlier this year.

The celebrated actor received his OBE for contributions to performing arts and charitable causes at a ceremony held at Windsor Castle last April.