'Oaks adviser discusses rape trial plot

A barrister who has been advising the Hollyoaks team on the soap's forthcoming rape trial has revealed details of his involvement with the storyline.

Show regular Gilly Roach will face trial later this month following Jacqui McQueen's claim that he sexually attacked her. The case will unfold in a special week of episodes due to commence on March 28.

However, as announced last month, the decision of whether Gilly is guilty or not guilty will be made by 12 members of the public - putting the outcome of the storyline into the hands of a real-life 'jury'.

Barrister Paul Dockery, who has been overseeing the hard-hitting plot, told the Manchester Evening News: "As well as advising on all legal aspects of the storyline, I offer advice about court scenes - from which matters can be raised in court to what lawyers can ask.

"I will also be making sure the jury are advised correctly on the legal direction. Gilly's trial is going to have viewers talking and I want to make sure the scenes comply with all legal rules and procedures as much as possible, even though sometimes the drama of the story can take centre stage because, at the end of the day, it's a soap."

He added: "Rape allegations are a very serious topic and, as part of a Channel 4 rape awareness campaign, I am taking part in an online video on the Hollyoaks website where the characters will be asking me questions about the legal aspects of the case."

Hollyoaks bosses have said that they want Jacqui and Gilly's storyline to explore the complex subject of rape from two different perspectives and give rise to debate.

> Click here to read our Hollyoaks spoilers