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Susan Carter

Susan desperately wants to be the Horrobin girl who made good.

Fact title Fact data
Played by:
Charlotte Martin
Born:
10 October 1963
Status:
Occupation:
Postmistress (Ambridge Community Shop) and dairy worker, both part time

And she thinks she might have, if only Neil had stuck with that sales job at Borchester Mills and not gone back to his piggy roots.

But she shook off the shackles of her background a bit with their lovely self-built house, Ambridge View. And Christopher's now defunct marriage to Alice made Susan a sort of in-law to the monied Aldridges.

If only the rest of the Horrobins didn't keep dragging her down... All her brothers have now left Ambridge (thankfully). Her sister, and youngest sibling, Tracy remains in the village since returning in 2011. While Susan may question some of Tracy's choices, they both know deep down that 'there is no friend like a sister in calm or stormy weather'.

Neil, don't come in here with those muddy boots.
Susan Carter
  • Likes - Social climbing
  • Dislikes - Neil's earthy manners, mice
  • Highs - Christopher's graduation ceremony in London
  • Lows - Being sent to prison for harbouring her criminal brother Clive, Chris's ghastly accident

Immediate family

Key relationships

Charlotte on Susan

Susan is a bit of a gossip isn’t she? Always ready to judge and comment on others behaviour and rarely takes time for self-reflection. However, she is completely devoted to her family who mean everything to her.

Her relationship with Neil is strong and possibly the most successful relationship in Ambridge! They balance one another perfectly and there is no doubt that they love one another very much. From Pinky the Pig to Chilli nights, Susan, and her unique perspective on the world, can always be guaranteed to bring a smile (or a grimace) to your face!

Charlotte Martin

Charlotte was born in Fontainebleau, France where her Father was based at NATO Headquarters. She grew up in Solihull, regularly performing in school plays and training as a ballet dancer. After leaving school she spent a short time teaching dance and exercise before securing a place at The Birmingham Theatre School.

After graduating she spent some time working in TV and theatre before an introduction to Trevor Harrison (Eddie Grundy and an alumni of the Birmingham Theatre School) led to an audition for The Archers in 1983. Throughout almost 40 years with The Archers she has worked regularly in Radio Drama, television, theatre and voicework.

She has a PhD in Psychology and is an Assistant Professor in Adolescent Mental Health. She has published a number of academic papers and presented papers at international conferences. Charlotte is also a qualified fitness instructor.

Archers highlights

When Susan went to prison after harbouring her errant brother Clive, I was astounded at the media response. There was even a campaign to ‘Save the Ambridge One’ and a mention in the House of Commons! I love acting with Brian Hewlett (Neil) who is a delight to work with and adore scenes with my radio sister Tracy – what a pair, eh?

Other career highlights

I’ve been incredibly lucky to have played Susan for so many years. The scriptwriters really ‘get her’ and their scripts often make me howl on first reading them. Over the years I have had the privilege to work on some fantastic ±«Óătv productions and with a host of amazing actors. Being a member of the cast has been, and continues to be, joyous.

Favourite

Actor – is Miranda Richardson – such a joy to watch… her performance in The Hours was mesmerising

Book – So many! I am an avid reader… probably best to highlight some of my favourite authors: Margaret Attwood, Sarah Waters, Irish Murdoch, Barbara Kingsolver, Patrick McGrath and Sebastian Faulks, Sarah Winman… the list goes on and on

Film – The Draughtsman’s Contract – Peter Greenaway; a feast for the eyes and ears coupled with an extraordinary Michael Nyman score