for a year, which was renewed annually until her death. The actress never expected a new contract and was "always delighted" when she received a new one. She also stated that she had no plans to retire unless she could not remember her lines. The character made her first appearance in the episode first broadcast on 25 May 2000. Upon her arrival, Edna created "controversy" by campaigning to end a new relationship between local vicar Ashley Thomas and pub landlady Bernice Blackstock. Edna disapproved of the relationship because she viewed Bernice as a "scarlet woman", however she did not manage to prevent them marrying. Characterisation and friendships Edna is characterised as a proud and independent woman who often makes judgements of others based on their behaviour. While many will consider her to be judgemental, she has a more caring side which can be unearthed. She will often berate her neighbours for their "hedonistic lifestyles". Edna is extremely loyal and wants to be relied on, disliking having to ask for assistance. Actor Freddie Jones (Sandy Thomas) pointed out that Edna has an "acid tongue" and "never let anybody get away with anything". Scriptwriter Bill Lyons liked writing for the character due to her "tactless" nature and how she would "say all the things you wanted to put into an episode". One of the character's more notable traits is her religious beliefs; she is a devout Christian and spends time helping at the local church. Author Tom Parfitt called Edna the "religious pillar of the community". He added that she is "a fierce, God-fearing little lady, unafraid to take anyone on and put them in their place". The show's wardrobe department dressed the character in a "pudding-basin" hat and distinctive coat, a costume which Edna became recognisable by. The hat was used to conceal Stelfox's long, blonde hair. Edna was only seen without the hat on two occasions in her entire tenure. Actor Tony Audenshaw deemed it "so profound". The character lives at Woodbine Cottage and is the first known occupant of the house. Prior to retiring, Edna worked for the King family at their haulage company. Nick Miles, who portrays Jimmy King, praised Stelfox and said that she was a "great priviledge" to work with. The character's backstory states that she was married to Harold Birch until his death. They raised Edna's nephew, Peter Birch, as their own son. Her marriage