DECEMBER 2000

WHAT’S HOT DOWN UNDER

Want to know what’s going to happen in the world’s coolest street? We profile two of the major storylines for the coming month…

SHOCK NEWS! ANNE CHARLESTON LEAVES RAMSAY STREET!

After weeks of speculation, Neighbours.com can confirm that Anne Charleston, who plays Madge Bishop, has filmed her final scenes in the long running soap.

Anne bid fellow cast members a tearful farewell on Friday, November 24, before departing to the UK, where she will now base herself. While details of the nature of Madge's exit are being top secret, we can confirm that the door has not been left open for her to return. She will be seen on air in Australia until late March, and in the UK until early May, 2001.

Anne first joined the show in January 1986, however, left in 1992. She returned (along with Ian Smith) in 1997. In total, she has spent more than a decade as a much loved resident of Ramsay Street.

Speaking exclusively to Neighbours.com on her final day of filming, Anne said:

"This is a sad day in many ways, as I am going to miss a lot of people. However, I am also looking forward to the future and new challenges. I will be very busy over the next couple of months with pantomime, and also getting back to my cottage in Ireland, so I won't have much time to dwell on it.

"Leaving this time around is certainly very different to the last time. Although I thought the last time was also final, I am now leaving knowing that the door will be closed and I won't be going back. I'm happy with the way Madge has been written out - it's very strong and dramatic."

Producer Peter Dodds - speaking on behalf of the entire cast and crew - wishes to extend his best wishes to Anne, and released this statement:

"Anne Charleston has been one of the great stayers of the show, and has invested enormous energy into the popularity and longevity of her character. We wish her every success in the future, and the best of luck in whatever dramatic pursuits she undertakes."

'TIS THE SEASON TO BE JOLLY!

With the festive season upon us, Neighbours.com asked cast members to share their hopes for this holiday season and their recollections of Chritsmas' past

ALAN FLETCHER (Karl Kennedy)

What is on your Xmas wish list this year?

I'll be in Sheffield and I would love to see some snow for the kids.

What was the best present you ever received?

I reckon getting any present is a bonus (they're all great!)

And the worst?

As above!

How are you planning to spend Xmas day?

I'll try and find a traditional pub in Sheffield to have dinner. We'll go to church in the morning.

What about New Years Eve?

No plans as yet - it depends what's going on.

Do you have a new year resolution?

I gave up smoking two years ago for a new year resolution - that's it!

What would you like to see happen to your character in 2001?

I'd like to see Karl become involved in helping some of the younger characters learn how to deal with life!

KYM VALENTINE (Libby Kennedy)

What is on your Xmas wish list this year?

To have the people I love around me.

How are you planning to spend Xmas day?

I'll be in London, surrounded by friends and family.

What about New Years Eve?

I'll be in London - we'll see what happens.

Do you have a new year resolution?

To live one day at a time and make happiness my priority.

What would you like to see happen to your character in 2001?

I'd like to see her in the Kennedy house making bad jokes!

DANIEL MacPHERSON (Joel Samuels)

What is on your Xmas wish list this year?

A wakeboard… and a boat!

What was the best present you ever received?

A snowboard from my girlfriend.

And the worst?

A rock!

How are you planning to spend Xmas day?

I'll be with friends in Brigton, England.

What about New Years Eve?

I'll be in London with close friends and family.

Do you have a new year resolution?

To relax more, and enjoy life.

What would you like to see happen to your character in 2001?

I'd like to see him get lost in a freak surfing accident.


SHANE CONNOR (Joe Scully)

What is on your Xmas wish list this year?

Peace and abundance.

What was the best present you ever received?

When I was little, I received a brumby dragster bicycle.

And the worst?

A blank video tape.

How are you planning to spend Xmas day?

I will be in Ho Chi Min City, Vietnam




What about New Years Eve?
Do you have a new year resolution?

To be 'better'.

What would you like to see happen to your character in 2001?

That he has a closer and more understanding relationship with his children.


KATE KELTIE (Michelle Scully)

What is on your Xmas wish list this year?

Clothes, clothes and more clothes!

What was the best present you ever received?

I was about 6 ½ and I received a trampoline.

And the worst?

Big flouro scrunchies!

How are you planning to spend Xmas day?

Lunch at my house with mum and dad and my brother, then dinner at my grandmas house with aunts, uncles and cousins.

Do you have a new years resolution?

To learn something new.

What would you like to see happen to your character in 2001?

Something fun and exciting!