The Responder writer reveals the real-life personal inspirations behind his new Sheridan Smith drama

His office is filled with personal touches: a book cover from his novel-writing days, a poster of a 1970s housing estate similar to where he grew up, and a display of photos and sketches dedicated to his father. He proudly mentions his five-year-old son. There’s also a front page from the Liverpool Echo celebrating Everton’s 1966 FA Cup win, a poster for his popular TV show The Responder, and another for the 1938 film Ask a Policeman – a gift from his former police colleagues. A map of the Shipping Forecast hangs on the wall. He explains he’s always wanted to write about it, as it reminds him of his time as a taxi driver, listening to the forecast at 1am and 5am.