Derek Thompson: Charlie Fairhead of Casualty leaves after 37 years

By Emma PetrieArts and culture reporter

Derek Thompson is leaving BBC drama Casualty after 37 years as Charlie Fairhead.

He is the longest serving actor in the medical drama and the only remaining character from the first episode in 1986.

Thompson, 75, said: "It's time for me to hang up Charlie's clothes after the most wonderful 37 years."

The Belfast-born actor will film until the fall and his final scenes as Charlie will air next year.

The Fairhead's character was inspired by a nurse character - Pete Salt.

In a statement, Thompson said, "With the writers and producers, I have tried to bring Charlie the compassion, the kindness, the heroism and the sound judgment that we all see and love Pete.

"I want to say thank you to Pete and everyone else during this time that I 'inspired to bring this character to life."