There are few researcher roles in television as varied as that of the researcher on Crimewatch, the BBC's flagship factual programme. From sourcing and checking CCTV footage, to identifying stories and building contacts with police, researchers on the show play a crucial role in bringing stories together.

As researcher Rachel Newman explains, her role requires a mix of strong organisation skills and clear editorial judgement to ensure that the right spread of stories feature on the hour long programme.

Reconstructions are also a major part of the researcher's job, and Rachel supports the director on set to make sure that scripts are ready, props are sourced, schedules are communicated and that cast and crew are briefed and prepared on all aspects of the story. It's not all glamour however, as Rachel is keen to point out - keeping the cast and crew fed and watered is a major factor in keeping morale on set high, and making sure the production runs smoothly.

Once back in the studio, Rachel will also be on hand on the phones to field calls from anxious and interested viewers, feeding this information to the police and filtering out what sensitive information can and cannot be broadcast live on air. Researchers may well have to deal with difficult and upsetting cases, and while this is challenging, it's something that Rachel takes in her stride.

"The rewarding thing is getting the results and when the phones ring on the night of transmission and arrests are made, then it's really worthwhile."