List of Family Affairs characters

Scarlett Anderson was played by Cat Simmons during 2005.[1] Scarlett's storyline sees her seduce married man Les Boulter (Howard Saddler). But he tells her it was a mistake.[2][3]

Caleb Andrews was played by Steve Tosssaint during 2004 and appeared as a series regular.[4] He is the best friend of Les Boulter (Howard Saddler) and love interest of Les' wife Denise Boulter (Clare Perkins).[5] One notable storyline for the character involved him taking a HIV test, the results of which were negative.[6]

It is revealed that he Brendan Boulter's (Steven Burrell) biological father. Caleb tries to reignite his affair with Denise, but in the end Denise chooses Les. Caleb shares a kiss with Eileen Callan (Rosie Rowell), whose husband Pete Callan (David Easter) was held on remand for murder. Caleb leaves Charnham because Eileen's daughter, Lucy Day (Julia Lee Smith) witnesses the kiss and threatens to tell Pete.

Gavin Arnold was played by Neil Roberts and made his first appearance in 2001. Roberts was a newcomer to the soap opera genre and was signed to the show's regular cast.[7] A columnist from the Daily Record included Gavin's return to Charnham in their "pick of the day" feature.[8]

Polly Arnold was played by Juliet Cowan during 2001.

Tanya Ayuba was played by Laila Rouass between 2000 and 2001 and was a doctor. The character appeared on a recurring basis and it was Rouass' first role on British television.[9][10] Ten years after her departure from the show, Rouass claimed she was still recognised as Tanya.[11]

A Soaplife reporter revealed that Tanya would be stunned when her boyfriend Gavin Arnold (Neil Roberts) asks her to move in. They added that Tanya feels that their relationship is moving too fast and curious about his relationship with his estranged wife Imogen. Tanya finds Imogen's address and goes to see her in what transpires to be a "disastrous visit".[12]

DC Cheryl Barker was played by Cathy Murphy between 2003 and 2004. She engaged in a live-in relationship with Dave Matthews, which sometimes caused tensions given his propensity to sometimes operate outside the law.

Madge Bennet played by Heather Chasen appeared for 5 episodes in 2005.

Brendan Boulter was played by Steven Burrell between 2003 and 2004.

Denise, along with her husband Les and children Brendan and Kelly moved into Stanley Street in December 2003 shortly after the death of Roy Farmer in the cybercafe fire. Denise and her husband purchased the corner café and number 16 Stanley Street from Roy's widow Nikki Warrington. They started a restaurant on the site of the café and the family moved into number 16. Les's old friend Caleb Andrews (Steve Toussaint) was employed to work in the restaurant as a cook.

Denise initially tried to keep secret the truth about a long-ago affair with Caleb, and the fact that Brendan was actually Caleb's son. Denise and Caleb resumed their affair, but quickly ended it when Denise realised she loved Les, however Les found out about it soon after.

During her time on Stanley Street, Denise built up strong friendships with Cat MacKenzie, Chrissy Costello, Eileen Callan and Cheryl Barker. The five of them formed a pub darts team.

While walking home one night in December 2004, Denise was raped by an unidentified assailant. Les immediately suspected Christian Habgood, Denise's tutor at Charnham College. However, when entering the car of local taxi driver Graham Harker (Lee Warburton) Denise suspected him of the crime based only on her recollections of the smell of his aftershave and his usage of the phrase "Scout's honour". The police questioned Harker, but no forensic evidence could be found to link him to the crime and they were forced to release him due to lack of evidence. Denise persisted with her desire to see him arrested, and eventually learned the true identity of her attacker.

Shortly after this Denise discovered that Les had been to see prostitutes on a number of occasions. Marriage counselling was unsuccessful, the couple split and in late 2005 Denise moved away. Her daughter Kelly and granddaughter Susie later joined her.

Denise was portrayed by Claire Perkins.

Kelly Boulter, played by Carryl Thomas, made her first appearance in October 2003 and departed in August 2005.

Kelly first appeared in Charnham in October 2003, around the time she was dating Benji McHugh. Kelly had also been sleeping with Justin MacKenzie. When Kelly fell pregnant with twins, there was some doubt over the paternity of the babies. Eventually, Justin was revealed to be the father. Despite Benji's warnings to take things easy, Kelly began drinking and as a result collapsed and was hospitalized. In hospital, doctors revealed Kelly had lost one of the twins. Benji left Charnham for sunnier climes after this.

Kelly's family, particular her father Les and brother Brendan didn't really care for Justin, as they liked Benji. However, Denise, Kelly's mother was prepared to give Justin the benefit of the doubt. After the Boulters had settled into the area and purchased the corner cafe previously owned by Roy Farmer until his death in a fire at the same premises in November 2003, Kelly had made some friends in local teenage girls Lucy Day and Melanie Costello.

In July 2004, Kelly gave birth to a baby girl, Susie, named after Justin's mother. Justin and Kelly later became engaged.Throughout the rest of the year, Kelly was involved in several family dramas including the break-up of Brendan's marriage to Melanie following a revelation that Brendan was bisexual; and Denise's rape.

In early 2005, Kelly and Justin were horrified when they were accused of abusing Susie, after she had suffered severe head injuries. The Boulters and MacKenzies were under surveillance from social workers for several months until a judge at a hearing was satisfied that nobody was at fault but ordered a review every three months.

In August 2005, after Denise had left Les, Kelly wasn't too far behind as her relationship with Justin fell apart after he'd slept with a friend of hers from College; Scarlet Anderson. It turned out Scarlet had also slept with Les. Following this, Kelly left Charnham, taking Susie with her and later joined Denise.

Lester "Les" Boulter, played by Howard Saddler, made his first appearance in November 2003. He departed in August 2005.

Les first appeared in Charnham in November 2003, shortly after he and his wife Denise, had heard the news that their daughter Kelly was pregnant. Just before Christmas, Les and Denise moved into the area and began running their own Cafe on the site of the previous Cybercafe that had been destroyed in a fire, resulting in the death of the owner, Roy Farmer.

Les took a dislike to Kelly's boyfriend, Justin MacKenzie but eventually warmed to him.

During the first few months of 2004, Denise had been having an affair with old friend, Caleb Andrews. Les found out but eventually forgave Denise. Further shocks were to come when Les discovered Brendan wasn't his son, but Brendan reassured Les that he considered him his dad.

Things went from bad to worse between Les and Denise. Les became jealous of Denise spending so much time with her tutor at Charnahm College, Christian Habgood. One night in December, Denise was raped while walking through an alleyway.

When cab driver Graham Harker moved into Stanley Street, Denise immediately recognised his voice. After months of high drama and Graham's arrest for kidnapping Denise and holding her daughter-in-law Melanie against her will in his flat, Les and Denise tried to get things back to normal but the damage had been done.

Les began seeing prostitutes on two occasions, despite hesitating. Les was arrested on the spot one day and fined. Following this, Les and Denise separated.

Les sold the corner cafe to Marc MacKenzie and moved up to Liverpool, leaving Justin in charge of letting his house.

Conor Byrne was Declan's brother, resident in Charnham for several months in 2000.

Conor was played by Glenn Mulhern.

Declan Byrne was played by Quentin Jones between 1999 and 2001.

Eileen Callan (née Day) was played by Rosie Rowell from 2002 until final episode in 2005.

Peter 'Pete' Callan was played by David Easter from 1997 to 2005.

Pete becomes close to Julie-Ann Jones (Chloe Howman) and nearly sleeps with her. Julie-Ann's mother realised what could happen and informed Pete that he is Julie-Ann's father.[13] Easter told Sue Malins from Soaplife that "Pete always regrets that Julie-Ann came into his life a fully grown woman and that he missed out on her childhood years."[14] Missing out on Julie-Ann growing up makes him realise that he cannot let the same occur with David Junior. Pete is annoyed when Cat Matthews (Nicola Duffett) puts Dave Matthews (Richard Hawley) as David Jnr's father on his birth certificate.[14] Pete decides he will be more successful in a custody battle if he too were married. He sets his sights on family friend Siobhan Jones (Jemma Walker). Easter explained that "he realises that her has to find a partner so he can present himself as part of a stable relationship equipped to raise a child."[14] Easter believed that Pete targets Siobhan despite being aware that she is vulnerable. But she had always called him "Uncle Pete" and viewed him as a friend. As the storyline progresses he proposes to her. Easter added that "despite being completely calculating in the beginning"; Pete proposes marriage out of genuine love.[14]

A reporter from Soaplife observed that "nearly every woman who walks into this soap seems to walk into his arms – and is soon made to regret it."[13]

Pete begins a relationship with Charlotte Day (Leanne Lakey).[15] She later proposes marriage to him despite allegations that he has slept with his ex-wife Claire Toomey (Tina Hall). Following advice from Siobhan that Charlotte may be his final chance of happiness, that Pete decides to accept. But a new affair storyline is developed and Charlotte sleeps with Johnny multiple times. Pete learns of their affair and decides to set a trap.[15]

A Soaplife writer said "Charlotte and Pete's relationship is proving more elastic than a pair of Cat's leopard-skin leggings. But, unlike the aforementioned garment, it seems to be holding up very well, despite much outside interference."[15] Beth Hart from Digital Spy believed that Pete had met his match in Charlotte because she kept him "on his toes" since they met.[16] Hart later branded him "Charnham's arch manipulator".[17] Soaplife's Di Hollingsworth said "Pete Callan's a cunning, devious charmer who manages to smile that evil smile of his even when he's delivering the nastiest threat imaginable. Women don't seem able to resist falling at his feet."[18] The writer later opined that "Pete's a guy totally without morals. Combine that with oodles of sex appeal and you've got a deadly cocktail, one that Pete serves up when he needs to get his own way. He can turn on the charmm like a tap, and he frequently does."[19] Fellow columnist Emma Pomfret observed "Pete Callan's love life is about as savoury as one of Fred Elliott's best tripe pies."[20]

Pete entered the storyline in June 1997. As Maria's callous former husband he was disliked by most of her friends, the Hart and Gates families and their associates. Nevertheless, he took over running local bar restaurant The Lock where they all regularly hung out. Pete developed a deep-seated enmity with Roy Farmer, and later developed similar rivalries with his employee Josh Matthews and Josh's father Dave.

Despite his thuggish tendencies Pete was revealed to have a love of children. During a brief and troubled marriage to Claire Toomey was nevertheless a devoted stepfather to her twins Evan and Stella.

After splitting from Claire, Pete embarked upon a De facto marriage to Dave' ex-wife Cat for several months, but it was eventually revealed to have been a con perpetrated by Pete to exact revenge on Dave and to swindle Cat out of her home. He had convinced her to sign over ownership of her home to him as a formality to expedite a business transaction. After this was done he revealing the con to her, ended the relationship, and kept the house. Soon after this Cat found she was pregnant. At first there was doubt as to whether the child was Pete's or Dave's. Tests showed the child to be Pete's.

After selling The Lock and buying pub The Black Swan, Pete reemployed Josh as a barman to pay off a debt. Pete later murdered Josh, framing his then-wife Siobhan for the crime. She was found guilty and given a suspended sentence. Soon after the trial she realised that Pete had framed her. Pete was imprisoned (on remand) for a lengthy period starting December 2003 after being framed for arson by his then-wife Eileen. He returned after being acquitted at his trial in June 2004.

He continued in Charnham until September 2005 when he was shot dead during an armed standoff with S019 officers.

Pete was a very iconic Family Affairs character. He was born on 9 July 1959 in Liverpool or London but was living in Stepney, London by the time he was 11. His real father's first name is unknown but his Scouse mother Joan, who we saw in the series, remarried when Pete was 11 and Pete suffered years of abuse at the hands of his stepfather. His mum knew but never did anything. Pete was charged for his stepfather's manslaughter in 1975 and sentenced to 3 years in prison. He had an affair the very early 1980s with Patsy Jones, the wife of his mate Reg and Patsy gave birth to Julie Ann in 1981 but Pete never knew Julie Ann was his until 18 years later. He married Maria in the 1980s and made his debut in Charnham in 1997.

David Cash was played by James Gaddas. The character is a solicitor and boss and partner to Holly Hart (Sandra Huggett).[21]

Chloe Costello was played by Leah Coombes from September 2003 until the end of the series in 2005.

Christine (Chrissy) Costello (née Maxwell) was played by Kazia Pelka from 2003 until the end of the series in 2005.

Gary Costello was played by Gary Webster from 2003 until the end of the series in 2005.

Melanie Costello (formerly Boulter) was played by Rebecca Hunter from September 2003 until May 2005. She returned for the final week of the series in December 2005.

Myra Costello was played by Kate Williams from 2003 until the end of the series in 2005.

Gemma Craig was played by Angela Hazeldine from 1999 until the character's departure in 2003.

Gemma forms a friendship with local bad boy Arlo Dean (Asier Cebeira). But their friendship is threatened by the behaviour of her Aunt Joyce. Cebeira told Soaplife reporter Emma Pomfret that Gemma brings out Arlo's affectionate side. He added that Arlo "really cares about Gemma and he didn't give a damn about what he had to do to escape Joyce."[22]

Gemma begins a relationship with Paul Webb (Martin Delaney).[23] He asks her to marry him and she agrees. Hazeldine believed that Gemma had become carried away with planning the wedding because she was young. But she was never sure about whether marrying Paul is the correct thing to do. Gemma develops feelings for Cameron Davenport (Rupert Hill). Paul asks Cameron to be his best man. Following an argument with Gemma on the eve of their wedding, Paul enlists Cameron to help sort their problems. But the intervention leads to the pair sleeping together.[23]

Hazeldine told Sally Brockway from Soaplife that "I just don't think she's ready to be getting married at the age of 17." Gemma had been battling an attraction to Cameron and seeing him before she is to be married proves to difficult to resist him. The actress believed that Gemma and Paul sparring before they were even married did not bode well for married life.[23] She believed her character would have been content with her relationship had Paul not proposed. Gemma loves Paul but the thought of marriage pressurised her. Paul becomes suspicious of Gemma and Cameron when he finds them in her bedroom. Hazeldine revealed that Paul had viewers sympathy and people would approach her in the street to warn her off Cameron. She concluded that "the wedding scenes were very emotional".[23]

Beth Hart from Digital Spy said that Gemma and Paul's negative magazine compatibility test "confirms what viewers already know: they are not well suited."[24]

Cameron Davenport was played by Rupert Hill from March 2002 until July 2004.

Genevieve (Ginny) Davenport was played by Joanna Foster from 2002 until 2003.

Jessica Davenport was played by Sammy Glenn from 2002 until 2003.

Jude Davenport was played by Daniel Jackson in 2003. Adoptive brother of Robert, he attracted scorn from Robert's wife Ginny and sons Cameron and Lewis after pursuing a romantic liaison with Robert's daughter Jessica.

Lewis Davenport was played by Sam Stockman from April 2002 until July 2004.

Robert Davenport was played by Brian Cowan. Robert arrived in Charnham in 2002, setting up a catering business in Stanley Street. Frustrated by his moody and censorious wife Ginny he had a one-night stand with Geri Evans. Geri later accused him of rape. Robert was arrested and went to trial, but was ultimately acquitted. After this Ginny left him, moving to France. Robert, along with his employee Fern Farmer, was killed when a runaway car driven by Jake Walker crashed into the workplace in September 2003.

Charlotte Day was played by Leanne Lakey from May to October 2002.

Charlotte begins a relationship with Pete Callan (David Easter).[15] She later proposes marriage to him despite allegations that he has slept with Claire Toomey (Tina Hall). It is only following advice from Pete's ex-wife Siobhan Jones (Jemma Walker) that Pete decides to accept. But the storyline develops into a deceitful one when Charlotte begins an affair with Johnny. Pete learns of their affair and decides to set a trap.[15]

A reporter from Soaplife said that "Charlotte and Pete's relationship is proving more elastic than a pair of Cat's leopard-skin leggings. But, unlike the aforementioned garment, it seems to be holding up very well, despite much outside interference."[15] Beth Hart from Digital Spy believed that Pete had met his match in Charlotte, adding that "she's been keeping him on his toes since day one."[16]

Lucy Day was played by Julia Lee Smith from 2002 until leaving a few months before the end of the series in 2005.

Arlo Dean was played by Asier Cebeira from 1999 until 2000.

Arlo is characterised as a bad boy with a criminal history. His storylines include glue-sniffing, alcoholism, shoplifting and blackmail.[22] Arlo begins a relationship with Gemma Craig (Angela Hazeldine) and their relationship brings out an affectionate side in Arlo. He becomes concerned about her well-being around her Aunt Joyce. Cebeira told Soaplife columnist Emma Pomfret that "Arlo's always been to embarrassed to show any affection – he thinks it's girly. But he really cares about Gemma and he didn't give a damn about what he had to do to escape Joyce." But Cebeira preferred his character's wayward ways, adding "Arlo's mischievous streak is more fun to play." Pomfret said that there it was unlikely Arlo would ever change his bad persona.[22]

Maxwell (Max) Derwin was played by Nick Stringer. He first entered the series in March 1999 and remained until Christmas Eve that year, when he died of a heart attack during an argument with his foster son Arlo Dean.

Gabriel Drummond was played by Roger Griffiths from June 2002 until the character's departure in September 2003 after running away from his involvement in a car scam.

Karen Ellis (née Webb) was played by Tanya Franks from 2000 until 2003.

Matthew (Matt) Ellis was played by Matthew Jay Lewis from 2000 until 2003.

Geri Evans was played by Anna Acton from 2002 until the end of the series in 2005.

Fern Farmer (previously Derwin) was played by Belinda Sinclair. She entered the storyline in 1999. At that time she was married to taxi driver Max Derwin and their foster son was troublesome Arlo Dean. They quickly began steps to take on another foster child, the recently orphaned Gemma Craig. They did so, but soon afterwards opted to discontinue fostering Arlo. During a subsequent argument with Arlo, Max died of a heart attack. Fern later learned he was a bigamist with another wife, and a biological child, living in a neighbouring town.

She later married Roy Farmer's father Vince. Vince clashed with Gemma and the marriage did not run smoothly. They eventually separated and Vince moved away. Fern took a job working with Robert Davenport in his catering business. Fern had decided to reconcile with Vince when she, along with Robert, was killed when a runaway car driven by Jake Walker crashed into the workplace in September 2003.

Royston Farmer was played by Miles Petit from episode one of the series in March 1997.

Vince Farmer was played by Stephen Yardley. Vince appeared briefly in Charnham in 1999, visiting his son Roy. He returned in 2000 on a permanent basis. During this time he married Fern Derwin, but the marriage later crumbled. He left in 2003, and moved to France. He was planning to return to Fern when she was killed in a car accident. Vince subsequently returned to Charham for his son Roy's funeral later in 2003.

Georgina (George) Fitzgerald was played by Florence Hoath from September to December 2005 when the series ended.

Barbara Fletcher (previously Trip) was played by Kay Adshead from episode one in March 1997 until 1999.

Nathan Fletcher was played by Felix Scott from October until December 2005 when the series ended.

Bradley Foster was played by Harry Capehorn from 2004 until 2005.

Ben Galloway was played by Peter England. He was a member of Roy Farmer's housing project at Number 14 Stanley Street. He briefly dated Chris Jacobs until he admitted he was gay. They remained friends and subsequently left to find alternative accommodation in Brixton in September 2003.

Elsa Gates was played by Delena Kidd from episode one in March 1997 until 1998, when she was murdered by her husband Jack, who subsequently gassed himself.

Jack was an original character in the series, a secret easter egg put in by the makers of the show to reveal the name of Bill Gate's secret son. He was last spotted in 2010 drinking a tinny in the park, after he was spotted dismembering fox hunters in there ivory towers (with a pair of odd socks) Jack disappeared and hasn't been seen since. MI5 are conducting Operation Digital Puppets to locate Jack but to no avail.

Yasmin Green (née McHugh, previously MacKenzie and Matthews) played by Ebony Thomas from 1998 until the end of the series in 2005.

Anna Gregory was played by Martha Cope.

Penny Gwynne was played by Georgia Mitchell during 1999. Penny is a shy character who keeps a pet python. She becomes a lodger in Sadie Hargreaves's (Barbara Young) home. A reporter from Soaplife branded Penny a "introverted lodger".[25]

Pamela Hargreaves (later Pamela Trip) initially joined the storyline in 1997 when she appeared as the solicitor of Liam Trip. She soon started a romance with Liam's father Nick Trip, and they were engaged to be married.

Pamela subsequently defended a man accused of sexual assault, Simon Thornton (Valentine Pelka), believing him to be innocent. Prior to the trial Pamela learned that he was actually guilty. When Pamela dropped the case due to his guilt, Simon started stalking her, however neither Nick nor Pamela's mother Sadie believed her claims she was being stalked. Pamela eventually killed Simon in self-defence – he died after she hit him over the head with an iron when he attacked her after luring her into his house. She and Sadie disposed of the body but were wracked with guilt and fear of being caught for several months.

Pamela married Nick in 1999. Eventually Simon's makeshift grave on Charnham Common was discovered, and because of the long silence and the fact she disposed of the body and never reported the death Pamela was sentenced to murder for the crime, and sent to prison.

Pamela was initially played by Sandra Hendrickse from 1997 until 1999, when she was sent to prison for murder. On the character's release from prison in 2005 Caroline O'Neill took over the role, appearing for several months.

Graham Harker was played by Lee Warburton. Graham first appeared in Charnham in early 2005 when he took employment at the local cab office owned by Gary Costello and Dave Matthews. Having recently been raped by an unidentified assailant in a darkened laneway, Denise Boulter identified Graham as her attacker when she got into his cab and recognised his aftershave and his use of the phrase "Scout's honour". However, there was no forensic evidence linking him to the crime, so Graham was not charged. The Boulters firmly believed he was guilty and made several attempts to convince him to leave Charnham. Graham refused to leave, and began dating Gary's daughter, Melanie, who fervently believed he was innocent. He soon became possessive of Melanie and his aggressive side came out. He then began hitting her, and then held her against her will in his flat.

Melanie enlisted Denise's help but Graham discovered this. He kidnapped Denise in his car, but in the ensuing chase ran off the road after a near miss with Ben and Alex Williams in another car. Denise managed to escape the wreckage, and saved a trapped Graham at the last second before the car exploded in flames. Denise suggested she saved him as she felt that Graham's death would have been the easy way out.

Angus Hart was played by Ian Cullen. An original character in the series, Angus was featured beginning with episode one in March 1997. After losing his wife Sally he came to live with the family of his son Chris. He married Helen Cooper after much consternation over the fact that she was a Roman Catholic who insisted he convert to her religion, however she was killed minutes after the wedding in a car accident. He continued in the series until January 1999 when he and the majority of his family were killed in a massive boat explosion during the wedding reception of his granddaughter Melanie Farmer.

Annie Hart (née Gates) was played by Liz Crowther from episode one in March 1997 until 1999, when she and the majority of her family were killed in a boat explosion. Initially a steady, stable character whose main storylines involved reacting to events in her children's lives, Annie eventually featured in more dramatic plots such as her unplanned pregnancy (resulting in the birth of her fifth child, Sam) and her affair with her neighbour, Dave Matthews, who also began a relationship with Annie's elder daughter, Holly.

Chris Hart was played by Ian Ashpitel from episode one in March 1997 until 1999, when he and the majority of his family were killed in a boat explosion. Chris was depicted as a traditional, working-class man from Newcastle, who struggled with some of his children's life choices, for example his younger daughter Melanie Hart's decision to train as a policewoman, and his elder daughter Holly Hart's decision to have a relationship with another woman.

Duncan Hart was played by Rocky Marshall from episode one in March 1997 until 1998, when his character moved away. Some months later all of his family were killed in a boat explosion. Duncan briefly returned to the series in 2000 for one week, this time played by Jonathan Wrather, as the character struggled to cope with the loss of almost his entire family, his only living relatives being his twin children with Claire Toomey.

Helen Hart (née Cooper) was played by Janice McKenzie. Helen first appeared in 1997. She became engaged to Angus Hart and there was much tension over the fact that she was of a different religion, being a Roman Catholic. Helen died as a result of injuries sustained in a car accident minutes after her wedding to Angus in 1998. She was badly injured when the car being driven by her new stepson, Chris Hart, crashed after leaving the church, and Helen died of a heart attack while being treated in hospital.

Holly Hart was played by Sandra Huggett from episode one in March 1997 until 1999, when she and the majority of her family were killed in a boat explosion. The twin sister of Duncan Hart, Holly had a lesbian relationship with Duncan's ex-girlfriend, Susie, but at the time of her death was in an affair with her neighbour, Dave Matthews – who was also sleeping with Holly's mother. Another of Holly's major storylines was her continuing angst over being (when the series began) a virgin although she was in her mid-20s. This ended when she slept with Susie.

Jamie Hart was played by Michael Cole from episode one in March 1997 until 1999, when he and the majority of his family were killed in a boat explosion. The fourth of the fifth Hart children, Jamie was a schoolboy teenager who featured in few storylines.

Melanie Hart was an original character in the serial, appearing from episode one in March 1997. She was a police constable and was the first of the Hart children to leave the family home, albeit to live with her grandparents Jack and Elsa Gates.

She later started a romance with Roy Farmer which ended after he was charged with drug possession. They later reconciled, leading to their marriage in January 1999 where she became Melanie Farmer. However Melanie and the Hart family were all killed just hours later. During the wedding reception which was being held on the boat previously owned by the recently deceased Jack Gates, a gas explosion tore through the vessel, killing all on board except Roy.

Melanie was played by Cordelia Bugeja.

Sally Hart, wife of Angus, was played by Jean Heywood from episode one until episode ten, when she died after drowning in a canal.

Samuel James Angus (Sam) Hart was the youngest child of Chris and Annie Hart. The result of an unplanned pregnancy, Sam was born late 1998, and was killed in January 1999 in the boat explosion that claimed the lives of most of the Hart family.

Barry Hurst was played by Tony Booth during 2001.

Gloria Hurst was played by Joanna Wake from 2001 to 2002.

Kelly Hurst was played by Nicky Talacko. Kelly entered the storyline in 2001 when she arrived on holiday from her home in Australia to visit her aunt Sadie. Kelly was a lesbian who left a girlfriend in Australia. In Charnham she soon befriended a neighbourhood couple Karen and Matt Ellis, and eventually agreed to act as surrogate mother for Karen. After falling pregnant to Matt she and Karen began an affair, and Karen ended her marriage to Matt. The affair with Karen continued after the birth of the baby, a girl who was named Grace. Kelly died in 2002 after falling down a flight of stairs during an argument with Matt.

A reporter from Soaplife branded Kelly and Karen's relationship "tangled". They observed that "one whiff of lesbian love triangles, surrogate mums and tug-of-love baby battles and the tabloids would have a field day. Stories don't come much more salacious."[15]

Sharon Ingram was played by Kim Taylforth from 2004 until 2005. She was Chrissy Costello's best friend until revelations of her son Bradley, abusing Chrissy's daughter Chloe came to light.

Chris Jacobs was played by Gemma Wardle. She lived at Number 14 Stanley Street with boyfriend Ben Galloway and their housemates Anna Gregory and Amir Sadati. Chris left with Ben in 2003 to find alternative accommodation in Brixton.

Gabby Johnson was a university student who shared a flat with Clive Starr and Declan Byrne. She had romances with various men including Declan, Roy Farmer, Pete Callan, and with Clive's boyfriend, the bisexual policeman Adam Sheldrake. Sometimes depicted as prissy and bossy around the flat, she was occasionally seen as a proponent of health-food, and she at one time ran an aerobics class.

Gabby was played by Emma Linley from January 1999 until 2000.

Julie-Ann Jones was played by Chloe Howman and made her first on-screen appearance in 1999 and departed during 2000. Julie-Ann is the "love-child" of Pete Callan (David Easter) and was only reunited with him once she had grown up. Easter told Sue Malins from Soaplife that his alter-ego regrets not being a part of Julie-Ann's life. She is a grown woman but he missed out on her childhood years.[14] Di Hollingsworth of Soaplife described her as a "spoilt little minx who liked to get what she wanted". She noted that Julie-Ann was unafraid to milk her relationship with Pete; adding that "she's her father's daughter alright".[26]

Julie-Ann arrived in Charnham to see her older sister Siobhan and gain independence from their parents. Julie-Ann quickly went on to pursue local publican Pete Callan until her mother, Patsy intervened and revealed to her that Pete was actually in fact her father.

Julie-Ann used this to her advantage and began milking Pete for all he was worth. Later that year, Julie-Ann had an affair with Siobhan's boyfriend, Declan Byrne. In 2000, Julie-Ann was raped at the hands of one of Pete's associates, Jon Tyler. Pete set up a measure of revenge by selling him his previous wine bar, The Lock and flooding it.

That March, Julie-Ann began an affair with the recently married Josh Matthews and the two fled to Greece together, leaving Josh's wife Yasmin devastated. Julie-Ann was never seen in Charnham again, although Pete did visit her several times and referred to her on occasion. Her final mention was by Cat MacKenzie, who had informed her of Pete's death and subsequent funeral, but Julie-Ann didn't return.

Siobhan Langley (previously Callan, née Jones) was played by Jemma Walker. She first appeared on a recurring basis from in December 1998. She is an old family friend of Pete Callan and calls him "Uncle Pete".[14] In one storyline Pete decides that he would fare better in a custody battle if he was married. Pete decides that Siobhan is an ideal candidate. Easter told Sue Malins from Soaplife that "Siobhan's young, she's vulnerable, but Pete targets her anyway!".[14] But she is initially "horrified" because she never thought about him romantically. Easter said that because he is tha father of her sister Julie-Ann Jones (Chloe Howman) she viewed him as a family friend. But Easter noted that when Pete asks Siobhan to marry him it is done out of genuine feelings for her.[14] A reporter from Soaplife opined that Siobhan would have to "take temporary leave of her senses" to even consider a relationship with Pete.[27]

Siobhan soon started a romance with Declan Byrne after his arrival in January 1999, but abruptly left Charnham in March that year after they had a lover's quarrel. She returned later that year briefly resurrecting the romance with Declan. However, Declan cheated on Siobhan with her half-sister Julie-Ann. Siobhan subsequently aborted Declan's baby. They remained friends later. Through all this she remained working for Pete, eventually moving with him to his new pub, The Black Swan.

In mid-2000 Siobhan married Pete Callan, and they lived together upstairs at The Black Swan. One night, Pete framed her for the murder of pub employee Josh Matthews, who Siobhan had been in a relationship with and who had discovered her marriage to Pete was bigamous. Siobhan went to trial and was found guilty of manslaughter, being given a suspended sentence. She slowly realised she had been framed by Pete, who had been tried alongside her but acquitted. Even though she had legally remarried him, she aborted their child and walked out on him. She became good friends with Roy Farmer, with whom she briefly had a relationship, and like him was a staunch opponent of Pete. She was left unable to conceive after a car accident caused when Pete ran the car she was travelling in off the road. She eventually left town in 2002. About a year after she left, it was reported that Siobhan had since remarried.

Max Lawson was played by Marcus D'Amico from June to October 2005.

Sadie Lloyd was played by Barbara Young from November 1998 until July 2005.

A reporter from Soaplife said "comic turn of the month" for November 1999. The referenced storyline involved Sadie performing at a talent contest but being mistaken for a drag queen.[25]

Meredith Lovechild a nurse who entered the storyline in September 2005. She was known for her bitchy and selfish behaviour. She paid for it dearly when her friends and housemates Hector Price and George Fitzgerald fell for each other and left her out in the cold on New Year's Eve. Meredith then left Charnham.

Meredith Lovechild was played by Perdita Avery from September 2005, to December 2005 when the series ended.

Cat Matthews played by Nicola Duffett. Cat has a child following a one-night stand with Pete Callan (David Easter). She gives birth to his child, David Junior.[14] When Pete discovers that he is the father he is annoyed at Cat for putting Dave Matthews (Richard Hawley) as David Jnr's father on the birth certificate. Easter told Sue Malins from Soaplife that "now he knows about Cat's baby there is no way he is going to take a back seat." Easter believed that Pete "flipped" at Cat's deception and became determined to gain custody of their child.[14]

Douglas (Doug) MacKenzie was played by Gareth Hale from 2003 until the end of series in 2005.

Justin MacKenzie was played by Ryan Davenport from 2003 until the end of the series in 2005.

Marc MacKenzie was played first by Michael Wildman from 2003 to 2004 and then by Graham Bryan in 2005 up until the final episode.

Rosa Marshall was played by Ginny Holder for six months in 2002.

A reporter from Soaplife branded Rosa a "ruthless" character.[15]

Joshua (Josh) Matthews was played by Terry Burns.

Benji McHugh was played by Junior Laniyan between December 1998 and July 2001, and Mark McLean between December 2002 and December 2003.

Dusty McHugh was a played by Doreen Ingleton. First entering the storyline in late 1998, Dusty was a loud and bossy divorced mother of teenagers Yasmin and Benji. She owned and ran her own minimarket business Dusty's Store, and she and her children lived upstairs in a flat. In 1999 she moved to Jamaica to care for an invalid relative; her sister-in-law Pearl McHugh arrived to take the reins of the business and care for Yasmin and Benji. Dusty made a brief return appearance in Charnham for Yasmin's wedding to Josh in December that year. In 2002, Dusty died in a car crash in Jamaica, off-screen.

Pearl McHugh was played by Doña Croll from 1999 until 2002.

Eve O'Brien was played by Zara Dawson from October until December 2005 when the series ended.

Johnny Palmer was played by Iain Fletcher. He was mainly known for his feuds with Pete Callan and his romantic involvements with Eileen Day, her daughter Charlotte and Claire Toomey.

Deke Pascal was played by Darren Saul from 2001 until 2002.

Ziggy Pascal was played by Roger Davies-Roberts from 2001 until 2002

Hector Price was played by Andrew Hinton-Brown from September to December 2005 when the series ended.

Hester Randall was played by Catherine Kanter for several weeks in December 2005 until the end of the series.

Rex Randall was played by John Hopkins from November to December 2005 when he is killed offscreen by Katie on the last episode.

Ratty is a pet dog owned by Maria Simons (Annie Miles) and Roy Farmer (Miles Petit) and later Sadie Hargreaves (Barbara Young).[28] Producers initially planned to kill the dog off in a drugs storyline following ingestion of ecstasy tablets. But the dog survived the ordeal when they decided against the death. Tina Baker from Soaplife included Ratty's drug storyline in her feature profiling soap opera's "pottiest plots".[28]

Alex Callan Alex Callan played by Joseph Hill from 2001 until 2002.

Daniel Renshaw played by Joseph Hill from 2001 until 2002.

Linda Renshaw was played by Alison Newman for several months in 2001. Linda was Paul Webb's biological mother who rejected him after he tracked her down and tried to build a relationship with her.

Susie Ross was played by Tina Landini from 1997 until 1999. Susie was a bisexual character who slept both with Duncan Hart and later, his twin sister, Holly. After taking Holly's virginity, the smitten Holly pursued Susie and eventually they had a long-term relationship.

Amir Sadati was played by Kayvan Novak. He was one of the tenants of Roy Farmer's housing project at Number 14 Stanley Street and was a bad influence on local troubled teen Darren Scott. Amir briefly worked for Yasmin Matthews and dated her until he was caught stealing from her store and he subsequently left Charnham.

Adrian Scott was played by Ariyon Bakare between March 2000 and May 2001.

Adrian is the ex-husband of Nikki Warrington (Rebecca Blake). He is an ex-offender having spent time in prison and arrives in Charnham to gain access to his children Becky Scott (Chandra Reugg) and Darren Scott (Joe Fox). In one storyline, he discovers that Nikki is having an affair with her step-son Luke Warrington (Royce Cronin). Adrian orders her to let Becky and Darren live with him or he will tell her husband Andrew Warrington (Simon Cook).[29]

Blake told Diana Hollingsworth from Soaplife that Nikki cannot contemplate her children learning about the affair and agrees to Adrian's demands. But Nikki has an ulterior motive to her agreeing. Blake explained "Nikki's of the strong belief that this is only a temmporary arrangement. She thinks Adrian will come to his senses and bring them back. Adrian can't support them. The schooling arrangements, everything – they're just not in place. So she has a feeling he'll soon cave in and say he can't cope."[29] Blake also believed that Adrian was jealous of the affair because he could not bear to see her with anyone other than Andrew. As the storyline develops, Becky becomes miserable living with Adrian and runs away on two occasions.[29]

Becky Scott was played by Chandra Reugg between January 2000 and December 2003.

A Soaplife reporter branded Becky a "troubled teenager".[30]

Darren Scott was played first by Joe Fox for much of 2000 then by Ike Hamilton from 2001 up until 2003 when he, his mother and his sister left Charnham after Roy died in the cybercafe fire.

George Shackleford was played by Miles Anderson from July 2001 to January 2002

Joan Shackleford (previously Short) was played by Margi Clarke from 2001 until 2002. She was the mother of Pete Callan. She had Pete in 1959 when she was about 16 or 17 after marrying his father ? Callan. They either divorced or he died and she remarried Kevin Short in about 1970. She knew Pete was being abused by his stepfather but never batted an eyelid. She made her debut in 2001 at the time of Pete's court case over Josh Matthews' murder.

Tom Shackleford was played by Tom Healy from 2001 until 2002.

Sami Shafiq was played by Hosh Kane from June to December 2005 shortly before the end of the series. Sami first arrived in Charnham in June 2005 with his partner Max Lawson, who had bought Dusty's store from Yasmin Green. Yasmin and Sami didn't exactly hit it off at first, but they gradually became good friends. Max and Sami's relationship was plagued with problems, as Max was separated from his wife, Carrie and their children were kept in the dark. Max eventually went back to his family, and Sami went on to date Australian backpacker Brett Owen. After a stabbing following a disagreement with his mother, Aamina only days after the death of his father, Yousef, Sami left Charnham to go with Brett to Melbourne.

Michael (Mike) Shaw was played by Tony O'Callaghan from November 2003 until June 2004 and also made several flashback appearances in September 2004.

Adam Sheldrake was played by Vince Leigh from 1999 to 2000.

Adam begins a relationship with Gabby Johnson (Emma Linley). But she is unaware that he is also romancing her flatmate Clive Starr (Huw Bevan). A reporter from Soaplife reported that their affair becomes problematic when "cuddly Clive" becomes to clingy with Adam.[25]

Adam, a police constable, entered the storyline August 1999 as a love interest for Clive Starr (Huw Bevan). The relationship fizzled after Adam became cagey about his home life, and began worrying about how being outed would affect his career. Adam and Clive got back together shortly after Adam returned to Charnham to aid the search for Benji McHugh who had run off with his teacher, Maggie Roswell. Adam later revealed he had a daughter from his previous marriage.

When Clive went away on tour, Adam became involved with Clive's flatmate Gabby Johnson. Clive was devastated when he found out. Adam and Gaby got engaged but broke it off on the day of the wedding in March 2000. Adam then left Charnham, returning five months later to investigate the murder of Josh Matthews.

Diane Short was played by Pooky Quesnel from 2001 until 2002.

Maria Simons (previously Starr and Callan) was played by Annie Miles from 1997 until 2000. She had been married to Pete Callan before the series began. Many of her major storylines were connected to her desperate desire to have children after being rendered unable to conceive by a beating from Pete. At one point she deceived her new husband Dudley Starr into believing she was pregnant. She was in fact hiding a cushion under her dress. She eventually kidnapped a baby from a hospital, and tried to pass it off as her own. The baby's real parents soon tracked her down and the baby was returned to them. They did not press charges.

Eventually Pete Callan plotted to get her out of Charnham. He paid to unofficially adopt a baby, which he gave to Maria on the condition she leave town and never return. She left with the baby and was not seen in Charnham again.

Clive Starr was played by Huw Bevan. Clive entered the storyline in January 1999 as a university student doing a Media Studies degree and sharing a flat with Declan Byrne and Gabby Johnson. He secretly fell in love with Declan, who was straight. After that he had a succession of short-lived gay relationships and grew increasingly depressed over his plain looks and short and stocky build, leading to a suicide attempt. Clive, at one point found himself in a love-triangle with new love Adam Sheldrake, and flatmate Gabby.

After graduating from university he worked as a radio presenter. He later worked as bar manager for Pete Callan at the Lock, and following Pete to his new pub The Black Swan, before moving away in 2001.

Dudley Starr was played by David Verrey. Dudley first arrived in the series as new chef at The Lock. He initially went by the name Serge Pompidour, which he felt was more fitting of a chef. His brother Clive Starr soon moved to Charnham as well. Dudley married Maria Simons but he left her upon learning she had kidnapped a baby, and was not seen in Charnham again.

Sean Steel was played by Sam Barriscale from 2003 until the character's death in the early hours of New Year's Day 2005 after being stabbed.

Olly came to the street as brother of Sam Taylor, he had a brief fling with Lucy. He began to fight for Lucy, against fellow character Jake Walker. Some of his last scenes were filmed as he pushed Jake off some scaffolding, placed in the street.

Sam Taylor was played by Leon Ockenden between May and December 2004.

Claire Callan (née Toomey) was played by Tina Hall. She was an original character in the series, appearing from episode one in 1997 until 2003.

Claire begins a relationship with Roy Farmer (Miles Petit) and she uses him for money. Claire is annoyed when she realises that Roy is falling in love with Sara Warrington (Beth Cordingly). Petit told Sally Brockway from Soaplife that Claire does not want Sara around because she is aware that she is losing Roy.[31] She realised their attraction before Roy did. Petit believed that Roy cares about Claire but cannot continue a relationship when he loves Sara. He added "he was never in love with Claire, I think it was just a convenience thing. It certainly helped him get over Maria, anyway."[31]

Claire was best friends with Melanie Hart, and she later had an affair with Melanie's brother Duncan Hart, falling pregnant to him. She gave birth to twins Ewan and Stella and Duncan rejected Claire and the twins. After Duncan left town, Claire married Pete Callan (David Easter), who loved the children, but the marriage was not a happy one. After the Hart family was killed in a boat explosion in January 1999, the sole survivor of the blast, Roy, became mentally unbalanced for a time, kidnapping and threatening to murder Claire. Soon after this, Claire left town after Pete beat her for defending Roy.

In 2000, she returned to Charnham hardened from her distarous marriage to Pete and was without her twins, who were with her sister. Later, she went into business with Roy. In 2002, whilst Pete is dating Charlotte Day (Leanne Lakey), rumours are spread that Pete slept with Claire. When Charlotte begins acting secretive, Claire decides to investigate her behaviour to find out that Charlotte is meeting her young sister Lucy. Claire decides to get revenge on Pete for what he did to her during their marriage. Claire decides to make it seem as if Pete has killed her and plans this with Johnny Palmer. Claire trashes her house to make it look like Pete broke in and murdered her. However the plan is ruined by Ben Galloway, who is obsessed with Claire. Claire continues to hide and fake her death, while Johnny blackmails Pete into giving him part of The Black Swan. She left Charnham permanently in 2003.

A Soaplife writer branded Claire "callous" and called Roy her "cash cow" and "gravy train".[32]

Liam was played by Stephen Hoyle from 1997 to 1999. He was introduced as the teenaged son of existing character Nick Trip and became friends with fellow teenagers Jamie Hart and Benji McHugh. He began working for Pete Callan but when he was arrested for robbery Pete abandoned him and he was sent to jail. He briefly returned to live with Nick after being released before leaving the area.

Goes to Langford middle school 11 years old can catch an attitude sometimes can be annoying has to many boy friends bestfriends caylin and Milena she has a crush on Emmanuel .

Jake Walker (played by Seb Castang) was initially seen in Charnham from February to December 2003, when he was sentenced to two years in a young offenders institute after accidentally killing Fern Farmer and Robert Davenport. Jake ran them down after losing control of a car during a police chase.

Jake only served his half sentence and returned in December 2004, remaining in Charham until May 2005.

Patricia "Trish" Wallace, played by Gabrielle Glaister, made her first appearance in September 2004. She left in September 2005; after being shot by Pete Callan during a siege at The Black Swan, Trish was hospitalized and then jailed.

Andrew arrives in Charnham as part of the new Warrington family. It consists of his two children Sara (Beth Cordingly) and Luke Warrington (Royce Cronin), wife Nikki Warrington (Rebecca Blake) and her teenage children Becky Scott (Chandra Reugg) and Darren Scott (Joe Fox). Blake who plays Nikki described Andrew as "a very straight guy" who could not imagine a bigger betrayal than his son and wife having an affair.[29]

Luke Warrington was played by Royce Cronin from January 2000 until March 2001, and from December 2001 to May 2002.

Nikki Warrington was played by Rebecca Blake from January 2000 until December 2003.

The wardrobe department kitted Nikki out with a plain dress code. Blake told Susan Riley of Soaplife that "Nikki's clothes are slowly getting trendier but she's very dowdy. When I used to see how frumpy I looked on-screen, I'd hotfoot it down to wardrobe and try to lose a few of her outfits."[33] When Blake first joined the show she was styling a shorter hair cut. But while filming her hair would drop over her face and Blake believed it made Nikki look like a muppet.[33]

Nikki arrives in Charnham with her children Becky Scott (Chandra Reugg) and Darren Scott (Joe Fox). She is accompanied by her husband Andrew Warrington (Simon Cook) and his grown up children Sara Warrington (Beth Cordingly) and Luke Warrington (Royce Cronin). Though an attraction develops with the latter and they begin an affair.[29] Blake defended her character's actions by noting that Nikki only ever acted on her feelings for Luke following alcohol consumption.[34] Nikki's ex-husband Adrian Scott (Ariyon Bakare) is introduced into the show and he learns of their affair. Blake told Diana Hollingsworth from Soaplife that "Nikki can't bear for the children to find out that she slept with Luke. She doesn't want to decimate the family set-up she's worked so hard to create. And Andrew is very much part of that package." Adrian uses his knowledge of the affair into forcing her to let him take Becky and Darren away.[29] But Blake explained that Nikki believes that Adrian will not be able to support them and will return them home. She then blames their departure on Andrew's family problems. But the deceit and her children's absence proves too much for the character. Blake stated "She's blown to pieces, utterly destroyed [...] Nikki is distraught. She keeps breaking down and is finding it very hard to hold everything together."[29]

Becky is miserable living with Adrian and runs away to visit Luke at university. Nikki goes to collect her but ends up sleeping with Luke despite the trouble their affair already created.[29] This was because the duo have a "strong sexual chemistry". Blake also believed that Nikki had fallen in love with Luke. But she remains determined to stay with Andrew. Blake reasoned that "It would blow the family apart completely. He's a very straight guy – I don't think he could envisage a bigger betrayal. It couldn't be worse."[29]

Andrew begins to suspect an affair when he returns from an American lecture tour. He is suspicious of Adrian taking the children and demands answers. Nikki lies to Andrew claiming she has been unfaithful with a colleague. Andrew is angry with Nikki but also willing to save their marriage.[35] Cook told Alison James of Soaplife that "he still loves Nikki and wants to make a go of things. But he doesn't make it easy for her. there's no way he intends to just forgive and forget." However Sara realises that Nikki will continue sleeping with Luke and makes sure Andrew catches them having sex. Cook believed that it was the ultimate betrayal from his wife and son. The shock leaves him numb and devastated. Andrew blames Nikki and believes that she corrupted her own son for an affair. Cook added that Nikki "completely abandoned her responsibilities".[35] Cook thought that Nikki's reasons for wanting to remain with Andrew were selfish. He added "Nikki's desperate to save it, probably because she'll lose everything – a sizeable income and her kids." Cook said there was no hope of Nikki and Andrew repairing their relationship. Producers decided to write Andrew out of the show. They realised that Andrew could not live on the same street as Nikki.[35]

Hollingsworth branded Nikki "Charnham's wicked stepmum" for sleeping with Luke.[29] While she later added "Nikki Warrington gave the term 'wicked stepmother' a whole new meaning when she fell into the arm's of her husband Andrew's son."[36] Their colleague Alison Riley said that Nikki's life was a "right mess".[33]

James (Jim) Webb was played by Jo Dow from December 2000 until September 2003.

Paul Webb was played by Martin Delaney from January 2001 until July 2003.

Paul begins a relationship with Gemma Craig (Angela Hazeldine) and later proposes marriage.[23] Hazeldine told Sally Brockway from Soaplife that Gemma had become carried away with wedding plans because she was young, despite being unsure about going ahead with the ceremony. Unbeknownst to Paul, his finance develops feelings for his friend and best man Cameron Davenport (Rupert Hill). The couple have an argument with on the eve of their wedding and Cameron agrees to help sort their problems. But his intervention results in Gemma and Cameron having sex.[23] Hazeldine explained to Brockway that Gemma was too young to get married. She had a long-standing attraction to Cameron and cannot resist him. The actress believed that Paul's disagreements with Gemma in the lead up to their wedding did not bode well for their future.[23] Hazeldine felt sorry for Paul because he had turned his life around and changed his attitude and tried to do right by Gemma. But she believed the proposal resulted in problems that otherwise would not have occurred. The thought of marriage proves difficult and [Hazeldine added] "it's a disaster – but Gemma has never been completely sure about marrying Paul." The character had gained the sympathy of viewers and Hazeldine was approached in public warning her character to keep away from Cameron and honour her relationship with Paul.[23]

Played by Idris Elba, Tim Webster appeared from the first episode. He was a good friend of Duncan Hart's, and attempted to romance Duncan's twin Holly although he was eventually thwarted by Holly's confusion over her sexuality and relationship with Susie Ross and, later, Holly's affair with her neighbour Dave Matthews. Tim was eventually written out of the series as part of the revamp that saw the Hart and Gates families eliminated from the show, departing a few months prior to most of the original cast members.

Coral, played by Katy Edwards from June until December 2005, was married to Jason Wilding. The couple moved into the street in the final weeks of the show. Coral was a glamorous, loud mouth who clashed with many residents.

Jason Wilding, played by Daniel Hyde from October until December 2005 when the series ended.

Alex Williams was played by Jake McCarthy from late 2004 until October 2005. He is one of Conrad Williams' children, twin brother of Ben, younger brother of Katie and older brother of Ania. He feels guilt over Ben being in juvenile detention for manslaughter, since Ben was protecting him from a boy who had been bullying him. Alex has a crush on Melanie Costello, who sees him as a joke. He loses his virginity with Jane Hughes, a homeless girl staying with the Costellos; when he realises she is lying about being friends with Melanie, she accuses him of rape but later admits the truth. He leaves to live with his mother after an argument with Conrad.

• Born "Anna Williams" 20 June 1991 to Conrad Williams and Ella Williams
• Appeared during 2004–2005 season
• Played by Elizabeth Holmes-Gwillim

Ben Williams was played by Adam Rhys Dee from January 2005 until the final episode in December 2005.

The father of the Williams family, Conrad was played by Simon Merrells, the older brother of Jason Merrells, and appeared from September 2004 to October 2005. A single parent, he had to deal with the repercussions of his son Ben spending time in juvenile detention for accidentally killing a classmate, as well as his relationship with Sharon Ingram, after her son Bradley Foster was revealed to have abused Chloe Costello. He had an affair with Tanya Woods, which ended when she realised she was pregnant by her fiancé John Stokes and married him. Towards the end of his time on the show, two of his children, Ania and Alex, left to live with their mother while Katie and Ben moved out of the house. Conrad was then reunited with Tanya, whose marriage had broken down after she suffered a miscarriage, and they left the show together.

Katie Williams was played by Robyn Page from October 2004 until the final episode in December 2005.

She was played by Jan Harvey from 2003 until the end of the series in 2005.

Tanya Woods, played by Carol Starks, made her first appearance in 2003.

Tanya works at St David's hospital as a nurse. She treats Jake Walker after his involvement in a car crash that killed Robert Davenport and Fern Farmer. Tanya later moves in with her best friend, Sean Steel, a gay man. The two agree to try to adopt a baby together. Tanya and Sean try to adopt Charlie, but the idea does not materialise as Charlie's mother Sarah comes back. Tanya later gives birth to a baby boy, Harry. Soon after, Sean dies in hospital after being stabbed by some youths in the early hours of New Year's Eve.

For the remainder of 2005, Tanya is involved in a love triangle with Dr. John Stokes and her neighbour Conrad Williams. John proposes to Tanya and they are married that September. They soon leave Charnham. Tanya miscarries and leaves John. Weeks later, Tanya realises she loves Conrad and returns to Charnham on a rainy night to let him know. The two share a kiss and leave for Fiji.

For her portrayal of Tanya, Starks was nominated in the category of "Best Actress" at the 2005 British Soap Awards.[37]