Fans of the hit high society drama Downton Abbey have reacted with disbelief to reports the show could end this year.

It was reported that the show, which has been a huge international hit, would finish at the end of the next series because creator Julian Fellowes wanted to start work on a new show set in 19th century New York.

One US fan, Michelle G. Wallach, said: "Oh please say it isn't so.....the end of Downton Abbey??? Most watched show in the world is signing off after a mere six seasons....looking for my #DowntonAbbey friends to share in my sadness!!

Another, writing on Twitter as LukeTH, said: "#Downton can't go!" with another viewer saying it was the news "Fans Have Been Dreading".

An ITV spokeswoman said: "We wouldn't comment on speculative stories about our programmes."

The show has been a critical and commercial success for ITV and made stars out of cast members including Michelle Dockery and Dan Stevens.

Earlier this month, Joanne Froggatt landed a Golden Globe after a rape storyline which shocked the show's devoted viewers.

Her character, maid Anna Bates, has been at the heart of some of the programme's most dramatic storylines.