Prepare for the end of an era in Casualty tonight, as the show’s longest running character, Charlie Fairhead, leaves Holby City hospital for good!

But will Charlie be heading off for pastures new, or meet a tragic end following his stabbing last week? Casualty star Derek Thompson reflects on his 38 years in the medical drama…

Hi Derek! Can you still remember your first ever episode of Casualty?

Charlie was in his little yellow Beetle coming over Bristol suspension bridge, winding through the streets of the city and ending up at the hospital. He got out of the car with his bomber jacket on, hair all over the place… it was like Noddy goes to hospital! He looked up at the building, raised a cigarette to his lips and said, ‘Let’s do this!’. It’s an image that has stayed with me throughout all my time on Casualty.

Are you happy with the way your final episode plays out?

When I first read the script, I didn’t have to think about it at all, because it’s just great storytelling. I think my final two episodes are some of the best episodes of my career.

Why do you think Charlie is still so popular with Casualty viewers?

Charlie is everyone. Charlie is a real person; he simply takes you into the show and plays the moral conscience of the audience. He’s a representative of the viewers.