Archers actress to reprise Clarrie Grundy role she played 30 years ago Archers actress Heather Bell is returning to the long-running radio show - and to a character she first played more than 30 years ago. She will reprise the role of Clarrie Grundy, the long-suffering wife of loveable rogue Eddie, in the Radio 4 rural soap, after Rosalind Adams stepped down following 25 years in the part. She said: "I am really excited to be returning to Ambridge, catching up with old friends - will we even recognise each other after all these years? - and working with such a great team again. At the same time, I'm quite terrified about stepping back into Rosalind's big shoes and living up to the task of making sure I stay true to Clarrie for all those discerning Archers listeners. Clarrie has always been a fun part to play, and even though as people we are totally different, I perhaps feel closer to her now that I am a grandmother myself, so I'm looking forward to meeting my radio grandchildren, my sons of course, and I can't wait to work with those two talented daughters-in-law. Adams took over the role in 1988 from Fiona Mathieson who in turn replaced Bell when she left after her first stint on the show. Programme editor Vanessa Whitburn said: "We are delighted that Heather will be returning to Ambridge with all her skill and enthusiasm for the part. We were set the challenge of finding an actress who could continue with the great work that Rosalind Adams has done down the years, ensuring Clarrie retains her special place in listeners' affections, and we are incredibly lucky to have tempted Heather back. Audiences will be able to hear her return on Sunday February 10.