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The Archers cast and crew received a double award on Birmingham's 'Walk of Stars' at the opening of ArtsFest, on Friday 12th September 2008.

The Archers celebrate their accolade

The long-running Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 drama were honoured with a star, as was cast member Norman Painting - otherwise known as Phil Archer - who has played the character since the show's beginning in 1950.

Fifty eight years of The Archers

The Archers has a very strong link with Birmingham's Broad Street, as it was at the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ's studios therein 1950 that the programme was first planned and recorded.

Norman explained how not only was it recorded in Birmingham, but it was originally only broadcast in Birmingham, and the show's success depended on whether the people of Birmingham took the Ambridge community to their hearts.

Norman Painting receives a personal star

Norman's Birmingham heritage

Norman Painting has starred in the show since its beginning, as well as writing over 2000 Archers scripts. He is closely connected to the city: a graduate and the holder of an honorary degree from Birmingham University, he is a former patron of the Friends of Birmingham Cathedral and has performed several times at Birmingham's Hippodrome and Rep theatres.

Norman said he was: "absolutely chuffed. Birmingham is a very special place and I have spent many happy years there. I couldn't believe my ears when I was told. I am thrilled, delighted and honoured, and very proud of it."

Archers editor Vanessa Whitburn added: "Despite being set in rural Ambridge, Birmingham has always been where The Archers is recorded.

Proud cast members hold aloft their star

"We're delighted to receive a star to celebrate our place in the city, and thrilled for Norman to receive such an accolade. Birmingham is a special place for many of the cast and production team and we hope to enjoy many more years making the UK's longest running drama here."

Birmingham's stars

Stars, which can be found on the pavements of Broad Street in the heart of Birmingham's entertainment district, have previously been awarded to Birmingham legends such as Ozzy Osbourne, Jasper Carrott and Murray Walker. The Archers awards will be the first double star.

The "everyday story of country folk" is the world’s longest running radio soap with more than 15,000 episodes broadcast.