Following a health breakdown while working as a computer analyst, Eddie Shoestring rebuilds his life as a radio “private ear”, pursuing investigations that arise from late night listeners.

* Shoestring’s early episodes, script-edited by Michael Feeney Callan, were record-breaking, achieving the biggest ever audience for a prime time BBC detective slot. The series subsequently ran for two successful seasons. Stars Trevor Eve.

The sudden death of the matriarch of Dublin’s most ferocious crime family spurs two rebel police officers to coordinate an attempt to smash the family’s hold on the city. One of the officers, Hannan, is related by marriage to the family, though this hardly tempers his savagery in meeting force with force. The other, McGettigan, approaches the investigation and resolution with the fearless brilliance of a chess master.

* This was Ireland’s first crime series, was a major critical and ratings success, universally noted as a landmark drama production. Stars Ray McAnally, Donal McCann, John Kavanagh and Barbara Brennan. Directed by Brian MacLochlainn.

Hugely successful ITV network series based on the world-famous board game. A guest panel watches a pre-filmed whodunit drama, then decides who the murder is, based on their observational skills.

* The series ran for three high-rating seasons, to which Callan contributed episodes each year. Stars included David McCallum and Lewis Collins (from The Professionals).

A dying wealthy man decides to outfox his greedy family by burying himself with his wealth. Or so it seems.

*Adapted by Michael Feeney Callan from Forsyth’s short story. Stars David Kelly and Shirley-Anne Field.