Actor William Simons was at the core of Heartbeat - The Yorkshire Post says

But far from the cantankerous and curmudgeonly nature for which his character was renowned, tributes being paid to actor William Simons speak of a “wonderful, warm...lovely human being”.

In memory of Yorkshire actor William Simons who starred in every Heartbeat series

He was a familiar face in the North York Moors, buying a house in the village of Goathland, where much of the filming took place, and it is testament to his kindness that Yorkshire Post readers who had the pleasure of meeting him recall a true gentleman, who always had time for a chat.

His role as PC Ventress was the icing on the cake of a career that had already spanned six decades and, as a fixture through all 18 series of the ITV show, it is for this that the 79-year-old Welshman will remain best known. Rest in Peace, a true heart of Heartbeat.