The final episode of hit sitcom Ghosts has divided the show's fanbase. While some found the ending – no spoilers – incredibly moving, it left other devotees a little disappointed. The episode had been eagerly awaited. Before broadcast a picture of the cast hugging each other on location has already gone viral on social media, moving many to tears.

But after the Christmas Day episode was broadcast there was a mixed response on the Ghosts Facebook page. Andy Chambers kicked off the debate with a provocative comment: "Gonna be honest ...I thought that was the worst episode out of all five series ..very little charm , one or two chuckles and the ending ? Less said about that the better ...not going to apologise for giving my honest view on it."

Linda Watson agreed: "I agree. Mike and Alison had previously wanted to stay at the house. They ‘loved’ living there but suddenly were happy to leave. Alison can see ghosts everywhere so not sure what the point of leaving was. Ending seemed rushed and untidy. Left me feeling sad, not because its finished but because it was a disappointing storyline."

As did Simone Sargent: "Worst episode ever. I shall ignore it and pretend it doesn't exist. My mum used Ghosts as her "happy place" after losing my dad last year. She rung tonight to say she was so disappointed and upset. They should have just left it with the episode where Alison was still expecting IMO,"

Liz Gill, however, thought it was the perfect way to wrap up the show: "Totally disagree. I thought it was a lovely ending. Cried my eyes out." And so did Cheryl Bennett: " I’ve just finished it and also cried. Was like saying goodbye to old friends myself."

Emma Sanford was one of a number of fans to highlight the plothole that Alison can see ghosts wherever she goes: "Such a pitty they took the easy way out. Just didn't line up with the ethos of the show. After Julians apology, the reasons they gave to stay just ignored? Allison will see ghosts everywhere sh goes, that has been made clear in other episodes so why not stick it out with your friends. ugh! That will be the 1st and last time we will watch that episode. How exactly is it better for Mia?? How??"

Julian Fox however wanted more ghosts action in the farewell episode: "30 minutes was just not enough for a big ending like that, though we did go through an emotional roller coaster I didn't feel like there was enough ghost content either." Which just goes to show there is no pleasing some people. 

Watch Ghosts on iPlayer here.

Picture: BBC/Monumental Pictures/Guido Mandozzi