WATCH: Murder at Downton Abbey In Hilarious Text Santa Sketch

Before we say goodbye to the Granthams forever, there’s still time for one last comedy sketch in honour of ITV’s Text Santa charity appeal.

The cast of Downton Abbey star in a new skit which sees fellow ITV star Brenda Blethlyn pop up at their sprawling manor as DCI Vera Stanhope to investigate a murder.

Oh bloody hell, Mary hasn’t offed another suitor has she?!

Vera arrives just as Robert and Isobel begin auditions to find Downton’s official Santa Claus. Hmm, we really don’t think the kids of Downton need Santa when their family’s rolling in it, but whatever.

Vera says, "It’s a stately home. There’s always been a murder.“

Of course, the very mention of the word “murder” is enough to get poor Bates quaking in his boots and he quickly makes his excuses.

The full sketch will air on Text Santa Christmas Jumper Day on 18 December on ITV