The Bill - Reg Hollis actor attempts suicide

9 January 2008 - The Bill' star Jeff Stewart allegedly slashed his wrists last night  after being sacked from the hit show.

The 52-year-old actor - who has played PC Reg Hollis since 1984 - was rushed to hospital after reportedly harming himself on the programme's set in Merton, South London.

A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "This was a desperate cry for help. It's extremely sad. He is in hospital and is being cared for."

Stewart was suspended from the police show just before Christmas after a furious outburst on set.

He was then told yesterday his contract would not be renewed, after which he returned to his dressing room at around 6.30pm and cut his wrists.

He then dialed security from his dressing room phone, begging for help, and staff immediately called an ambulance. He was taken to the nearby St George's Hospital, where he remains under observation.

In 2006, Stewart - the show's only surviving 1984 cast member - suffered an emotional breakdown in 2006 and was treated at the world famous Priory clinic.

(C) BANG Media International