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A new true crime drama has left viewers feeling "disgusted" and "horrified" mere moments into the opening episode.

The ITV mini-series Believe Me explores the devastating ordeals endured by victims of convicted rapist John Worboys, who targeted women while working as a "respectable" licensed taxi driver.

The ITV programme also examines "how the Metropolitan Police failed to thoroughly investigate their allegations".

ITV audiences swiftly flocked to X, formerly Twitter, to express their reactions to the disturbing new drama.

One wrote: "Yes it's a harrowing awful story but yes needs to be watched. I'm angry already #BelieveMe."

"This is going to really make my blood boil," another said as a third added: "I'm feeling uneasy already...

"Horrifying and gripping so far," one viewer remarked, as others called it "frightening", "really scary" and "all so horrific".

One more fumed: "So much victim blaming and non believing of women it's disgusting."

Another reflected: "I'm watching #BelieveMe and it is really, really well done, compelling - but god almighty this is a harrowing watch. I feel on the verge of tears already."

Believe Me is a four-part drama starring Line of Duty's Daniel Mays, who portrays Worboys.

Victim Sarah, whose genuine identity has been safeguarded, is portrayed by Peaky Blinders star Aimee-Ffion Edwards, while Laila, a fellow victim whose identity has also been protected, is played by Raised by Wolves' Aasiya Shah.

Carrie Symonds (now Johnson) is portrayed by Industry's Miriam Petche, while the remainder of the cast features Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again's Alexa Davies, Bad Education's Kae Alexander, Fool Me Once actor Laurie Kynaston and Amandaland's Philippa Dunne.

The synopsis for episode one of Believe Me reads: "Sarah Adams is given a drugged drink by a taxi driver and is certain she was raped.

"After months of Sarah feeling disbelieved by the police, her case is dropped and the man is free to attack again.

"Fact-based crime drama about the fight for justice by the victims of serial sex offender John Worboys."

Believe Me continues tomorrow, Monday May 11, at 9pm on ITV.

If you need support or advice on matters raised in this article, please visit www.rapecrisis.org.uk , call the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line on 0808 500 2222 or chat to Rape Crisis online 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk .