LINE of Duty star, Martin Compston has revealed a pact between his co-stars to get matching tattoos following record breaking viewing figures.

Martin Compston, who plays DI Steve Arnott in the hit BBC cop drama revealed that he and co-stars Adrian Dunbar (Superintendent Ted Hastings); Vicky McClure (DI Kate Fleming) along with series creator Jed Mercurio would get matching "AC12million" tattoos if the show hit the milestone.

Glasgow Times: Gritty cop role all in the line of duty - Martin Compston

The BBC revealed overnight viewing figures of 12.8million - a record for any drama excluding soaps since modern records began in 2002. It is thought millions more have tuned in on streaming service I-player too.

He joked that it was an “inconceivable and ridiculous scenario”.

Speaking to fans on twitter following last night's finale, he said: “Hey folks now the madness is slightly dying down just want to thank everybody who reached out about last night and the series as a whole, we’ve truly been blown away by the reaction and love for the show we’re proud of it.

“Fully understand it wasn’t the ‘urgent exit’ type ending some anticipated but we appreciate you sticking with us.

“Felt many emotions from excitement and anxiety at the hype to relief that it’s over. Now I just feel immense pride our show that started on Wednesday’s on BBC2 has just smashed every overnight drama record since they began.