PATRICK ROBINSON & RHEA BAILEY JOIN THE BOYS IN BLUE (06/02/08)

From My Park Magazine:

Patrick Robinson, best known for playing Martin 'Ash' Ashford in BBC1 drama Casualty has joined The Bill as DC Jacob Banks – a commanding cop on a mission.

A distinguished stage actor with the Royal Shakespeare Company, Patrick's more recent work includes his role as Don Pedro in Much Ado About Nothing and playing freed slave Thomas Peters in Caryl Phillips' adaptation of Rough Crossings, set during the American War of Independence.

Patrick's character, DC Banks is thrown in at the deep end on his first day when he is tasked to solve the murder of a successful private investigator alongside DC Mickey Webb (Chris Simmons). The officers are shocked when the case leads them into an even murkier world. Was the PI onto something big?

"I'm totally thrilled to join The Bill which is such a successful drama," Patrick enthused. "The team are all great and after spending the last nine years performing in theatre, it's wonderful to be back on the box and get stuck into an interesting long-term character, with a story to tell."

Also joining Patrick in CID is Rhea Bailey, sister of acclaimed singer Corinne Bailey-Rae.

After roles in Cold Feet, Torchwood and her portrayal as a police officer in Blue Murder, Leeds-born actress Rhea joins the ranks as DC Mel Ryder.

What you see is what you get with Mel and her no-nonsense approach means you'll always get honest answers. Mel gets stuck in on her first shift at Sun Hill when she is paired with PC Roger Valentine (John Bowler) to investigate a domestic situation with a twist.

Series roducer Tim Key said: "Patrick and Rhea are a great addition to our talented cast. 2007 was a fantastic year for The Bill and 2008 promises to be even better. By introducing a number of exciting new characters, we'll be able to keep our stories fresh and energetic as we continue to explore life as a police officer in modern Britain. We're confident that our viewers will be glued to the screen as Patrick and Rhea make their presence felt."

Patrick's first appearance as DC Banks will transmit at the beginning of April and Rhea Bailey as DC Mel Ryder in June 2008.

::: IN OTHER NEWS

A major character has handed in their notice to show bosses. Although the actor is still unknown, we've been told that they've featured in few major storylines since 2005 and that they wanted to leave to pursue other opportunities. Our money is on Chris Simmons (DC Mickey Webb), particularly with the sudden influx of new DCs (there will be 8 when the above two characters join). We'll keep you informed...