Viewers will be asked to choose between a magnificent seven of 2014′s top TV shows for the Radio Times Audience Award at May’s TV Baftas.

The shortlisted programmes are put to the public vote ahead of the awards, pitting Sherlock against Strictly Come Dancing and The Great British Bake Off against Game Of Thrones.

Also shortlisted are Cilla, EastEnders and The Missing.

Cilla
Sheridan Smith starred in Cilla (ITV)

Radio Times editor Ben Preston said: “This year’s shortlist showed British television was in the rudest of health. Nothing gets the nation talking like television – and 2014 was truly a vintage year.

“This shortlist shows we’re living in a golden era for British drama: an outstanding Sheridan Smith celebrating Cilla; the triumphant return of Sherlock; EastEnders rejuvenated with great new characters; the compelling and truly haunting The Missing; and Game of Thrones, jam-packed with British stars.

“2014 was also the year when Bake Off switched channels and got millions more people obsessed with cakes – and when Strictly’s all-female presenting line-up put a new spring in the show’s step. But which of the seven shows deserves to win? Now it’s up to the public to decide.”

The Missing
James Nesbitt starred in The Missing (BBC)

Voting starts today and the poll closes at 4pm on Thursday May 7.

Bafta chief executive Amanda Berry OBE said: “The seven shortlisted programmes showcase an excellent and diverse range of television from last year. Every programme on the list has given us something to talk about so the public will have a hard choice ahead of them as they decide who to vote the winner. I can’t wait to see who it will be on Sunday 10 May.”

The shortlist was drawn up by a panel of journalists and the winner will be announced at the event, formally known as the House Of Fraser British Academy Television Awards, on Sunday May 10.

The remainder of the nominations will be announced on Wednesday April 8.