“Pray be precise as to details,” said he.

The NTV Awards: Sherlock Needs You!

The National Television Awards (The NTAs) Shortlist is now open. 

The BBC’s Sherlock is a strong contender for the Drama category but is facing intense competition from Doctor Who, Downton Abbey and Merlin.

Benedict Cumberbatch (for Sherlock) may be odds-on favourite to collect the Drama Performance Male award but it can’t be taken for granted. He’s got to see-off Daniel Mays (Mrs Biggs), Colin Morgan (Merlin) and Matt Smith (Doctor Who) first.

You can vote free online. Vote here now!

Alternatively you can vote by phone – 0901 888 2013.

You have until 12 noon on Wednesday 23 January 2013 to make your vote count.

Further details are available online and also in the new Radio Times (12 – 18 January 2013).