COLIN’S KING OF THE REAL-LIFE

A TELEVISION veteran who has appeared as a policeman on and has been named the UK’s favourite soap extra.

Colin Murtagh was presented with his prize by Antony Cotton – alias Coronation Street’s Sean Tully – on behalf of online casino PlayOJO who organised the poll.

Colin said: “I am delighted to have won this award and I am over the moon that the public voted for me. NOMINEES: (

“I look forward to many more enjoyable years playing a variety of roles in TV and film.”

Soap actor Antony added: “I see every day the level of enthusiasm and hard work supporting artists bring to the set.

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to acknowledge them for the great work they do.”

Colin beat off competition from four other nominees, all earning a living in the showbiz world which was highlighted by comedian Ricky Gervais in his hit sitcom Extras.

Colin beat Ulric Browne, who is best known for playing market trader Winston on EastEnders since 1986, and Adam Blease, who has appeared as Dirk in The Street’s Underworld knicker factory for the last 10 years.

He also defeated Joel David and Maureen Seaberg, who are the longest serving married couple on Coronation Street, having first appeared as extras on the cobbles back in 1973.

Also in the running was Gemma Jones, 38, who has been an extra on Hollyoaks since she was 17.

She first appeared as a barmaid in The Dog In The Pond until the pub burned down, then as an employee at Il Gnosh restaurant, until that also burned down.

She is now a nurse in Hollyoaks Hospital. Ulric Browne, Adam Blease, Joel David with Maureen Seaberg and Gemma Jones EXTRA SPECIAL: Colin Murtagh and ( the hit show