I watched the first episode of the new series last night.
What a disappointment it was.
The story line was corny and the actors (understandably) didn't have any enthusiasm for it.
This previously popular series has lost it's shine.
Conflict with the scriptwriters seems to have caused that.
James Bolam has quit now and Amanda Redman leaves after this series.
Amanda Redman quits 'New Tricks' - TV News - Digital Spy
Denis Lawson replaces James Bolam on 'New Tricks' - TV News - Digital Spy