Walk of Stars - photo gallery
25 September 2008

Archers fans and Birmingham residents braved heavy rain to see the programme and Norman Painting - its longest serving actor - awarded "stars" in Birmingham's Walk of Stars.

Norman Painting (Phil) receives his personal plaque from Councillor Randal Brew (Deputy Lord Mayor of Birmingham)

Archers actors, production team and writers joined Norman and Archers editor Vanessa Whitburn to receive the awards from the deputy lord mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Randal Brew.

The councillor presented Vanessa and Norman with marble plaques commemorating the occasion, and permanent stars will be inlaid in Broad Street, at the centre of Birmingham's entertainment district.

View the photo gallery

Video report with interviews, from Bimingham Mail

Report and more pictures from BBC Birmingham

The Archers has a very strong link with Birmingham's Broad Street, as it was at the BBC's studios there that the programme was first planned and recorded.

Norman Painting has starred in the show since its beginning, as well as writing over 2000 Archers scripts. He is closely connected to the city: a graduate and the holder of an honorary degree from Birmingham University, he is a former patron of the Friends of Birmingham Cathedral and has performed several times at Birmingham's Hippodrome and Rep theatres.

Norman said he was: "absolutely chuffed. Birmingham is a very special place and I have spent many happy years there. I couldn't believe my ears when I was told. I am thrilled, delighted and honoured, and very proud of it".

Archers editor Vanessa Whitburn added: "Despite being set in rural Ambridge, Birmingham has always been where The Archers is recorded. We're delighted to receive a star to celebrate our place in the city, and thrilled for Norman to receive such an accolade. Birmingham is a special place for many of the cast and production team and we hope to enjoy many more years making the UK's longest running drama here".

Stars have previously been awarded to Birmingham legends such as Ozzy Osbourne and Jasper Carrott. The Archers awards are the first double star.