Criminal

Story

Synopsis

Simon Willerton's suicide in 1990 brought to six the number of young prisoners who hanged themselves in British prisons in just over six months, prompting public debate over conditions in remand prisons like Armley where overcrowding was so severe that no new inmates could be admitted. Simon faced a burglary charge over the theft of a hot-water bottle from an unoccupied flat. Less a hardened criminal than an immature, gawky teenager who never fitted in, Simon and his tragic death inspired this teleplay.

Director

Corin Campbell-Hill

Writers

Anna Price, Vincent O'Connell

Language

English

Country

United Kingdom

Release date

22 June 1994

Ensemble

Cast

• 

  Paul Popplewell

  Simon

• Leanne Whalley

  Annie

• Cheryl Godber

  Marie

• 

  Nicky Evans

  Toddy

• Jensen Marriott

  Gaz

• 

  June Watson

  Brenda

• Lynda Rooke

  Stacy

• Richard Mayes

  Tom

• Ray Ashcroft

  DC Harris

• 

  David Bradley

  Headmaster

• 

  Ian Mercer

  Probation Officer