Police drama The Bill's last original character, June Ackland, has come off the beat after 23 years' service. June Ackland - played by actress Trudie Goodwin - appeared in the pilot episode of the ITV drama, which was called Woodentop. A stalwart of Sun Hill police station, Ackland endured a stormy ride in the series, including two rapes. In 1995, her flat was broken into and set on fire. Ackland's life hung in the balance after her home was set ablaze. She bounced back a year later, with a promotion to the rank of sergeant. The Bill's June Ackland has been unlucky in love. She fell for PC Gabriel Kent, who later tried to convince her that he was her long lost son. He eventually committed suicide. Ackland's long association with fellow officer Jim Carver culminated in their marriage in 2004. His gambling addiction ruined her plans for early retirement and he walked out. Actress Trudie Goodwin took part in The Bill's 20th anniversary live episode in 2003, calling it one of her highlights of working on the show. June Ackland had to choose between quiet retirement or the allure of old flame Jim Carver in Thursday night's episode - her swansong on The Bill.
| 
BBC NEWS CHANNEL%7eRS%7eq%7eRS%7e%7eRS%7ez%7eRS%7e27%7eRS%7e&f=jpg&w=240)
News services
E-mail this to a friend
