Stewart 'improving' after suicide bid

The Bill actor Jeff Stewart has said he is "feeling much better" after attempting suicide on the set of the show on Tuesday.

Stewart, who has played PC Reg Hollis in the ITV1 police drama for 24 years, claimed he wanted to reassure fans that he was on the mend.

He was believed to have slashed his wrists in his dressing room at the London studio after being sacked from the show. It was later claimed that his suicide bid was prompted by gambling debts.

The 52-year-old said in a statement: "I love being an actor. My work as an actor is very important to me - it's my life - and the thought of this suddenly changing had an extremely serious effect on me.

"I want to reassure and thank everyone for all their support and good wishes. The last few days have been very difficult for me, but I am receiving the right care and help, and am surrounded by family and friends."

He dismissed speculation that he had accumulated large debts, saying: "I want to confirm that I do not have any financial concerns, or indeed any other problems, as has been reported."

He added: "I am feeling much better now, and am progressively improving. I have very much appreciated the kind messages of support from members of the public and other people in the business. I'd really appreciate if my privacy could be respected by the media at this time."