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Emmerdale is to focus on the issue of modern slavery in a special standalone episode. The soap’s producers have worked with The Salvation Army on the storyline, which features long-running character Paddy Dingle, played by Dominic Brunt, becoming increasingly worried about the whereabouts of his father, Bear, played by Joshua Richards. Richards, who has appeared in Hollywood films including Troy and King Arthur: Excalibur Rising, said he was honoured to be taking part in the story about the “abominable trade” that is “happening under our very own noses”. The episode, which will air on ITV on Monday, will show how, after not hearing from him for months after a period of tension, Paddy is desperate to track Bear down and reconcile. Unknown to him, Bear, a former professional wrestler, is now living on the edge of society, yet is still within physical reach of his old life in Emmerdale. Through flashbacks, viewers will witness how Bear was first taken in by seemingly kind people and offered “work” in exchange for board and lodgings. However, soon he is injured, frail and entirely under the control of his captors. Richards said: “It may surprise many people, but slavery is alive and well, indeed prospering in the modern world. “Not only in obscure countries and cultures that we know little about, and not just the exploitation of migrants by criminal gangs of which some of us are aware. “It is happening under our very own noses. The disadvantaged, dispossessed, those with mental health issues or disabilities, the old, lonely and vulnerable people that our society neglects are the perfect prey for grooming by unscrupulous criminal agencies. “I’m very excited and honoured to be taking part in this to hopefully educate and highlight this abominable trade of human bondage.” The episode also features the characters Ray Walters, played by Joe Absolom, and Celia Daniels, played by Jaye Griffiths. Emmerdale producer Laura Shaw said: “With our farming and rural backdrop we have an ideal setting, but it’s not all fluffy sheep and rolling landscapes. “The countryside, just like an urban setting, can harbour the dark undercurrents of society. “Bear is truly trapped in his situation and over a series of scenes you begin to understand a little more how this happened. “We have been extremely grateful for the support we have received from The Salvation Army for Bear’s story, but also the interlinked county lines drug story that we have been telling with April and Dylan. “The Salvation Army has given Emmerdale invaluable help with the portrayal of these shocking yet prevalent situations in our society.” Kathy Betteridge, director of anti-trafficking and modern slavery at The Salvation Army, said: “Forced labour is one of the most hidden, but widespread forms of modern slavery in the UK today. “We’re thankful to Emmerdale for using this storyline to expose the brutal truth – people are being exploited in plain sight, from farms and factories to cafes, car washes, homes and hotels. “Victims are often isolated, threatened and made to feel they have no way out. But there is a way out with the right compassionate support, recovery is possible. “Storylines like this, delivered with attention to detail and authenticity, help the public recognise what modern slavery really looks like and how vital it is to act when something doesn’t feel right.” Emmerdale airs every weekday at 7.30pm on ITV1 and STV.
