Star's in city write stuff

Evening Mail 12/4/04

By Jane Tyler


Brummie actor Ged Simmons from ITV police drama The Bill has a new string to his bow.

His first novel will be published next month - and part of it is based around the streets of Handsworth where he grew up.

Ged, aged 43, played rugged Det Insp Alex Cullen in the top drama for two years.

Since leaving he has combined TV and theatre work with writing screenplays and his novel The Gravedigger's Story.

He started writing the book just before he got the part in The Bill so had to put it on the back burner due to the programme's tight filming schedule.

"Although I haven't set the story in any particular place, the geography of the area is Handsworth and I'm sure locals will recognise it," he said.

Ged grew up in Oxhill Road, Handsworth, close to The Hawthorns - home to his beloved West Bromwich Albion.

During his time in The Bill he shamelessly plugged the club by getting his Baggies mug in every shot.

And despite living in London he tries to get to as many games as he can.

"I'm keeping my fingers crossed they get promoted this season," he said. "But I'd also like to see Wolves stay up as well.

"Then we'd have four West Midlands sides in the Premiership which will good for local derbys."

Ged went to St Augustine's Primary School, then Handsworth Grammar.

He studied drama at Walsall College while being a member of local amateur dramatics group The Grange Players before heading to London to begin his career.

Borrowed from ic Birmingham.co.uk

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