Heartbeat star Tricia Penrose looks totally different in photos that have emerged 12 years after the much-loved television series came to an end – but doesn’t appear to have aged much.
The ITV actress, who is now 51, rocketed to fame as cheery barmaid Gina Ward in the hit series, which aired from 1992 until 2010.
Gina was known for her cute, youthful style and her long blondey-brown hair, which she often pulled into a high ponytail in the 60s-set series. Big chunky earrings frequently completed her colourful look as she got behind the bar at The Aidensfield Arms.
But new snaps show that the former Aidensfield resident’s hair is a much lighter shade of blonde now, so she looks very different to her Heartbeat days.
However, the star still looks younger that her years with glowing skin and natural-looking make-up.
The show started in 1992 and starred former EastEnders heartthrob Nick Berry.
Tricia joined when the second series started in 1993 and stayed in the role until the programme wrapped in 2010.
She also made a few appearances as Gina in Heartbeat spin-off The Royal.
The actress appeared on other television shows over the years, including Corrie, Emmerdale, The Bill, Dancin’ Thru The Dark and legal drama Justice. She was also a Celebrity Big Brother housemate in 2013.
But in later years she has been focused on her career in radio.
(Image: Getty Images)
The actress was married to Mark Simpkin and they have two children, but according to The Sun they called time on their relationship last year.
Talking to Great British Life in 2014 about her hopes for the future, Tricia said: “I played Gina for 18 years so that is a massive part of me but I would love to something different.
“The touring version of Blood Brothers would be amazing. I love the show so much and I would still be able to be at home with my family rather than having to be in London.”
“I couldn’t bear to be away from them,” she added.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
