by Jane Horrocks) — Julie had worked at Valco since leaving school. She was often disliked by her fellow co-workers due to her bitter attitude which was attributed to the fact that her fiancé left her for another woman; however, they later warm to her when she begins to show her softer side. Julie is offered the permanent position of deputy manager when Leanne takes maternity leave and decides not to return. She had secretly been in love with store manager, Gavin Strong, since joining the Valco team and had often attempted to gain his affections. At a Christmas party, her final attempt was once again unsuccessful, only this time Gavin discovered she was in love with him. She decided to leave Valco and later became co-store manager of Widnes. She later returned to briefly visit Gavin at Valco for Christmas. (Series 1–3, guest Series 5) Andy Richmond (portrayed by Mark Addy) — Andy was head butcher at Valco for many years and has worked alongside Kieran at the meat counter. He sees himself as a ladies man and would often take fun in winding up the staff and customers alike. When Andy is later reunited with Sarah, 'the one that got away' he decided to choose her over his job and leaves Valco to start a new life with Sarah in Scarborough. (Series 1–3) Gavin Strong (portrayed by Jason Watkins) — Gavin is Valco's store manager and a long-term employee of the company. He is mild-mannered and dedicated to his work. He is a widower and it has taken sometime for him to find love again. He was clueless to the fact that his deputy manager, Julie Cook, was attracted to him and he later became romantically involved with members of staff including Anna and Cheryl. He briefly left Valco's store in Warrington to take up the position of area manager of the entire Valco chain, but later returned. (Series 1–7) Katie McVey (portrayed by Chanel Cresswell) — Katie was originally a checkout operator at Valco, and later went on working as a kiosk assistant, and then a checkout supervisor. She became romantically involved with Kieran, the butcher, and both left Valco to start a new life together. However, it is revealed that she and Kieran broke up and Katie soon returned upon receiving the position of HR manager and later working her way up to her current position