Swindon is to play an important role in the upcoming Christmas special of a long-running TV series.

The BBC has revealed its schedule for the festive period, which includes special episodes of familiar favourites as well as new dramas and one-off programmes.

The latest instalment of murder mystery series Death in Paradise will see DI Mervin Wilson (Don Gilet) investigate the death of a stranger who was found lying in the pool of a Caribbean villa after an office Christmas party took a dark turn.

Identifying the murder weapon complicates as matters and leaves the team baffled when they learn that when the murder happened, it was locked in a drawer thousands of miles away from the crime scene - in Swindon.

The public service broadcaster teases that the team will "call on the help of a familiar face to crack the case" in England while they are stuck in Saint Marie.

The second storyline will follow DI Mervin's personal life as he anxiously waits to hear back from his newly discovered brother, which prevents him from embracing Saint Marie's Christmas celebrations.

The BBC spokesperson added: "Can Mervin resolve his family situation and get into the festive spirit - for the sake of his team and the island?"

The episode will include guest stars Josie Lawrence, Kate Ashfield, Pearl Mackie, James Baxeer, Billy Harris, Oriana Charles and Alix Serman.

Spin-off series Beyond Paradise will also air a Christmas special, with Kris Marshall back as DI Humphrey Goodman, investigating a flurry of festive cases and trying to figure out why a man with memory loss was found on the steps of the local police station holding a photo of the detective inspector.

The exact broadcast date of these specials has not yet been confirmed. All previous episodes are available on the iPlayer.

Other highlights of the Beeb's Christmas schedule include animation The Scarecrow's Weding, the return of Tom Hiddleston spy drama The Night Manager, and special editions of Amandaland and Call the Midwife.

Kate Phillips, BBC's Chief Content Officer, said: "We've got so many terrific treats on the BBC this Christmas.

"There really is something for everyone as we light up living rooms across the UK with a multitude of magical moments. From specials of much- loved programmes, to new gifts across genres, the BBC is the place to be."