The writer of a new BBC drama set in the heart of a Nottinghamshire mining community has apologised for an error which irritated a number of local people.

James Graham's six-part series 'Sherwood' began on BBC One last night and has been widely well received by critics.

Mr Graham, who was born in Mansfield, and educated at Ashfield Comprehensive School in Kirkby, took inspiration from real life events in the County in 2004, when writing the crime drama.

However, one small piece of dialogue enraged a number of Nottinghamshire viewers as acclaimed actor Alun Armstrong who plays Gary Jackson, referred to Nottingham Forest as 'Notts Forest.'

This seemingly insignificant utterance will have undoubtedly washed over many national viewers but to Nottinghamshire people this was seen as an unforgivable faux pas.

Notts is only used in relation to Notts County, the oldest professional football team in the world. When it comes to the twice European Cup winners, they are either known by their full name Nottingham Forest or simply as Forest. Notts Forest is some sort of ugly amalgamation that infuriates both sets of supporters.

There was an unsurprising backlash once the scene had aired with some viewers going as far as to claim they had switched the programme off following the slip-up.

Taking to Twitter this morning (14 June), Mr Graham moved to offer his apologies and an explanation in a series of tweets.

He wrote: "I'm moved by all your Sherwood comments - thank you. Episode 2 tonight.

"On the hundreds of messages about "Notts Forest" , you are of course Absolutely Right. A true fan would never. I can (sort of) explain. The reasons were mainly character, & accent 1/3 #Sherwood

"Because of Gary's (Alun Armstrong's) history & politics, we thought no way he'd be a fan, supporting a northern team (inspired by real characters, this was loosely the case). And he's talking to a child. But the less satisfying reason is, by wanting local accents on screen - 2/3

"- I worried "Nottnm" wouldn't register for wider viewers & for non footy fans Forest is just a forest. My bad. Know it frustrates fans. I'll make amends. Please let me back into the city. Proud of your pride for your team. #Sherwood".

The series continues tonight on BBC One at 9pm.

We want to hear from our readers, did this mistake ruin your enjoyment of the show? Let us know on social media or by emailing [email protected].