On The Beat: My Story

by cole-graham

Graham Cole has played PC Tony Stamp in hit television drama The Bill for nearly 25 years. Now he lifts the lid on his own life and reveals how he became one of Britain's best-loved TV cops. From growing up in London to patrolling the streets of fictional Sun Hill, Graham's story is witty and warm and reveals what life is like as a star of the country's favourite police drama.

Genres: Nonfiction

320 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2009

Reviews

[Emma]

I don’t normally read biographies/autobiographies as I find them hard to read and rather formal and boring. This one was the complete opposite. It was like having a chat with Graham and as a huge fan of The Bill it was brilliant to learn more about what it was like to film. An excellent read and Graham is such an inspiring man.

[Graeme Eyre]

I think that this autobiography was interesting, particularly the aspects on 'The Bill' as that is what made Graham Cole a household name.

I found it hard to cope with the narrative style at times but an interesting read particularly if you are a fan of 'The BIll'

[Shaun Hately]

An enjoyable little autobiography about an interesting man - got it because I am a fan of 'The Bill' but reading about the rest of his life and career was very interesting.

[Richard]

This is a pleasant autobiography written by Graham Cole, the actor who played Tony Stamp for a quarter of a decade on The Bill.

I shall get the minor niggles out of then way. The tale is not quite chronological, so you will get an anecdote and then the qualifier “so-and-so was still alive at that point”. And I did tire a little of him describing people as his “great mate.”

But that’s it really for the negatives. As a fan of both The Bill and Doctor Who, as soon as Graham starts working in television I literally read the rest of the book in one sitting. Graham comes across so well - curious, courteous and courageous, and also honest. As the longest lasting character on one of the longest running continuous dramas he had several excellent storylines and it was fascinating to see how these affected him personally.

I loved the anecdotes about his time on The Bill, and about his charity work. His sense of loss at the end when he discovers that his contract is not being renewed is palpable - this book was written in the very short period of time between Graham leaving the show and it being cancelled.

Graham is a stalwart of many charities (which he mentions a lot but never comes across as boasting). He is extremely humble and grateful for the opportunities he has had in his life. Since this book was released 14 years ago he as been made an OBE for his continuing charity work.

As you can probably tell I really enjoyed this. As far as I can tell there aren’t all that many biographies about actors who made their name in The Bill, but I’m so glad this one exists.

[James Bonsall]

Add a star if you're a fan of The Bill.

[Emma]

Not even gonna lie, bought it soleley because I adore The Bill :3