LIKE many of the diehard Columbo fans in the audience, I was slightly apprehensive at an interpretation of the role Peter Falk had made his own.

But I needn’t have worried because Dirk Benedict, complete with raincoat, dishevelled appearance, a distracted air and bumbling attitude, fitted the part of Lieutenant Frank Columbo perfectly.

With a cigar never far from his reach, the former A-Team star and Celebrity Big Brother contestant, became the iconic TV detective, and with cheers and laughter from the packed theatre reeled off the many memorable catchphrases so typical from the show.

Columbo was on top of his game during the performance as he foiled psychiatrist Roy Flemming’s (Patrick Ryecart) seemingly perfect alibi with ‘just one more thing’ as he investigated the murder of his wife Claire Flemming (Karen Drury).

The supporting cast put in an entertaining performance, particularly Flemming’s lover and patient Susan Hudson (Elizabeth Lowe), although their American accents were slightly irritating throughout.

Patrick Ryecart was the only actor who didn’t attempt an accent, a factor which added to his arrogance and helped make him a brilliant villain.

The sets were very impressive but the two intervals and numerous very slow set changes made the performance a bit stop-start.

Prescription Murder was an enjoyable performance and a great nostalgic trip down memory lane.

* Middle Ground Theatre Company’s production of Prescription Murder, featuring Dirk Benedict as Lieutenant Columbo, is showing at the Lowry until Saturday.