Kingdom, ITV1

9:44am Monday 21st January 2008

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A WHILE ago I talked about programmes which fall into the 'secret vice' category - ones which you know you shouldn't tune into but somehow get you hooked.

Well, I've got another one - the ultimate Sunday night offering Kingdom.

The tale of a Norfolk solicitor and the usual collection of eccentric characters who inhabit the world of Sunday night TV shouldn't really figure on the radar that much - it's all pretty harmless and not a great deal happens. But, back for a second series, I just feel compelled to watch it.

In large measure that's due to the wonderful Stephen Fry who is perfect as the country legal eagle with a heart of gold.

Now he's got added problems with the reappearance of his missing brother, his sister's finally announced she is pregnant and his hapless assistant Lyle is wandering around like a love-sick puppy.

The quality of the cast helps raise Kingdom above the norm too.

With Hermione Norris being allowed to overract for England, Celia Imre and a welcome return to form for Tony Slattery you have an ensemble cast who can make the most of pretty meagre fair.

Then there is the show's secret weapon - the north Norfolk coastline which is wonderfully shot and will no doubt have coachloads of Americans heading for Wells-next-the-Sea.

Kingdom will never be ground-breaking - it's just harmless fun.