Grantchester star supported by fans after sharing finale update

Kacey Ainsworth, known for her role as Cathy Keating in Grantchester, has shared a heartfelt message as the curtain falls on the show's final series.

Devotees of the ITV hit were left in tears when it was announced that the cherished series would bow out with its eleventh season.

Since its debut in 2014, the crime drama has captivated audiences, with its tenth series yet to premiere, setting the stage for the last hurrah.

Taking to Instagram, Kacey posted candid behind-the-scenes selfies with fellow cast members and glimpses of the script, captioning: "On a hot hot day last week we all came together for our final readthru.

"What a joy it is, it has been for the past ELEVEN! Series," reports the Mirror.

"Thank you @emlyjkl @daisycoupow and everyone @kudostv past and present.

"Cathy has evolved in all ways thank you all for the opportunists you have given me on screen and on the page and to @masterpiecepbs for our international success."

Fans have been pouring out their emotions online, with one touching tribute reading: "I am so sad to see the end of Grantchester. I love it so much. Thank you to everyone involved in such a wonderful programme".

Another grateful viewer expressed: "I'm so grateful for the longevity of the series. I discovered it during Covid and it's become one of my favorite shows ever. I've even begun reading the books because of it and I'd love to visit the real Grantchester one day. I'll have to cherish all the remaining episodes that much more. Thank you for all your wonderful work on the show!"

A fan expressed their heartfelt attachment to the series, saying: "I have been watching and loving this show from the very first episode! ! Cathy's evolution has been the best throughout the series and you have played her to perfection! ! So sad for us viewers but so happy for you and the entire cast and what your futures hold!"

Former EastEnders actress Kacey has starred as Cathy from Grantchester's conception, alongside the likes of James Norton, Robson Greene, and Rishi Nair, who began starring in the series from season nine.

Fans were left sobbing at the news Grantchester was coming to an end, though ITV promised that Geordie (Robson) and Alphy (Rishi) would be "going out with a bang".

Daisy Coulam, writer, series creator and executive producer, said: "At its heart, Grantchester is a show about the power of friendship and love. We've been so lucky over the last 11 series to experience that on and off screen.

"For over a decade now - cast and crew (many who've been there since the beginning) have met each Summer to film. And it's been an absolute joy.

"Thank you to James Runcie for entrusting us with his characters. Thank you to the lovely people of real Grantchester. Thank you to everyone who's been a part of the show in any way - big or small. I'll miss you terribly."

Grantchester is available to watch on ITVX.