The Sweeney gets a high definition Blu-ray release this September

There are many classic British TV dramas, and plenty are gritty crime ones from an era where suspects regularly fell down the stairs on the way back to the station. Possibly one of the two most fondly remembered series stars John Thaw and Dennis Waterman, and has gotten a remake on the big screen.

Yes folks, Network Releasing are bringing The Sweeney: The Complete First Series out on glorious Blu-ray this 10th September, priced at a mere £39.99. With a runtime of 650 minutes, the aspect ratio is rather confusingly listed as 16:9/4:3, which could mean anything, but we hope this is in its original full frame.

Featuring a brand new high definition digitally restored transfer and a 5.1 Dolby soundtrack with original Mono and music-only accompaniments, extras include an interview with Ian Kennedy-Martin, introductions to 7 episodes by guest stars, reconstructed titles with original stills and a brand new commemorative booklet by Archive TV historian Andrew Pixley.

Scroll past the following advertising blurb for a video of the new HD transfer...

They are the Sweeney, son. And they haven't had any dinner… Relive the most ground-breaking British police drama ever made which coincides with the big screen remake.

Regan and Carter are part of New Scotland Yard's infamous Flying Squad. Mixing with London's seedy underworld they tackle the crimes to hard to handle for your everyday police officer.

Remember what the fuss was all about by picking up this diamond 4-disc set, seventies London has never looked this good. And neither has The Sweeney, son. Rough, tough and politically incorrect in the way that only the best 70s drama series can be.