They seem to stop the series part way through, then put a few episodes of something else on, then a few episodes of The Royal, then continue with Heartbeat for a little while, switch to the Royal and then it all starts all over again.
Why they do this, I have no idea. It's a real shame.
They did the same with Foyle's War. This last two weeks' episodes was the end of a three part series. They showed part one months ago.
This Sunday time slot has been quite erratic lately I think they are trying to compete with BBC's Nancy update. Foyles War is an excellent programme but it would be better shown at 9pm as it requires a more "sophisticated" audience..Heartbeat was a good regular programme which should be shown continuouslyThe programme schedulers haven't a clue as to what the viewers want and enjoy!
Heartbeat is due back in May, hopefully for a complete 12 week run.
ITV have been asked to explain the stupid scheduling and as far as I know, no one has received a logical reply. Mine was that Sunday night;s ITV is popular. Well, that was never in question.