to Harold was explored in 2014 with the introduction of Lawrence White (John Bowe), who had an affair with Harold in the 1960s, before the decriminalisation of homosexuality. When Edna discovered the affair, she reported Laurence to the police and he was imprisoned with Edna presuming he had died. Producer Kate Oates liked the shared backstory between Edna and Lawrence and called it "timely" in relation to public campaigns for pardons towards the men prosecuted for their sexuality. Edna's grandmother was a prostitute, something which Edna finds shameful. Throughout her time on the soap, Edna develops friendships with characters of a similar age, including Alan Turner (Richard Thorp), Betty Eagleton, Pearl Ladderbanks and Len Reynolds. In later years, the story team paired Edna with Sandy Thomas when he begins lodging with her, despite their contrasting personalities. Jones explained that Sandy sees the importance of his friendship with Edna as he feels "comfortable" with her. He added that the relationship is not "sentimental or smarmy" and they really care for each other. Writers created comical scenes for the duo and gave them walkie talkies to speak to each other after Sandy moves out. Jones praised the "real imagination" behind the "brilliant concept". Dogs Dogs have always been a key aspect to Edna's character. She was originally the owner of a Yorkshire Terrier called Batley, portrayed by Bracken. In the book 50 Years of Emmerdale, Parfitt opined that Batley was "as much a part of Edna as her trademark hat". In February 2002, producers killed off the character as part of "a heart wrenching story". Parfitt noted that Edna was "rocked when her closest companion seemed unwell". Batley's final scene features her placing a paw on Edna's arm as the vet administers a fatal injection. A show spokesperson praised the scenes, commenting, "it was very moving scene and she gave a stunning performance as Batley." Stelfox found the scenes emotional to film and cried for many days afterwards. Writers decided to introduce a new dog for Edna in the form of Papillon Tootsie, portrayed by Sky. After initially being taken in by vet Paddy Kirk (Dominic Brunt) and his wife Emily Kirk (Kate McGregor), Edna decides to take Tootsie in. In one story, Edna risks her own life to protect Tootsie. After noticing a car driven by Sam Dingle heading towards them, Edna interjects and is thrown into a ditch by impact.