The ITV drama focusing on the Post Office Horizon scandal delves into one of the most significant miscarriages of justice in British legal history.
Mr Bates Vs The Post Office
This four-part series brings to life the harrowing experiences of several sub-postmasters and postmistresses who were wrongfully accused of theft, fraud, and false accounting due to flaws in the Horizon computer system. The series airs January 1-4, 2024 at 9pm.
Key characters in the drama include1:
Alan Bates
Played by Toby Jones. A postmaster who was the key voice for justice during the Post Office Horizon scandal.
Jo Hamilton
Portrayed by Monica Dolan, Jo Hamilton was a subpostmaster at South Warnborough in Hampshire. Despite her successful management of the village shop, she was plunged into debt and legal troubles due to the faulty Horizon system. Her conviction for allegedly stealing £36,000 was later quashed.
Suzanne Sercombe
Played by Julie Hesmondhalgh, Suzanne is the partner of Alan Bates and was deeply involved in the fight against the Horizon system. Her character demonstrates the personal sacrifices made by those caught in this scandal.
James Arbuthnot
Alex Jennings plays James Arbuthnot, the former MP for North East Hampshire. He played a crucial role in bringing the scandal to the attention of Westminster and supported Alan Bates in his quest for justice.
Paula Vennells
Lia Williams portrays Paula Vennells, the former CEO of the Post Office during the scandal. Her tenure saw the Post Office transform from a loss-making entity to a profitable one, but also witnessed the aggressive legal campaign against the accused sub-postmasters.
Lee Castleton
Will Mellor plays Lee Castleton, whose case became one of the most high-profile ones. After refusing to cover a £25,000 shortfall shown by the Horizon system, he faced legal action that eventually bankrupted him.
Gina Griffiths
Clare Calbraith portrays Gina Griffiths, who, along with her husband, faced accusations of stealing over £60,000, leading to severe personal and financial consequences.
Michael Rudkin
Shaun Dooley plays Michael Rudkin, who, alongside his wife, was wrongly accused of stealing money, resulting in the loss of his job and significant financial hardship.
Pam Stubbs
Lesley Nicol portrays Pam Stubbs, who faced accusations and suspension due to supposed errors with the Horizon system.
The drama sheds light on the profound impacts of the scandal on the lives of these individuals and their families, highlighting the fight for justice against a backdrop of institutional failure and legal battles.
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