Balamory's Penny Pocket Returns: 20 Years Later and Loving It!

Kim Tserkezie, the actress known for playing Penny Pocket in the beloved children's TV show Balamory, is returning to her role after more than two decades. Penny Pocket is a friendly woman in her 40s or 50s with dark, curly hair who runs a cafe and shop in the fictional town of Balamory. Kim, who is from Newcastle, first played Penny Pocket from 2002 to 2005. The show, inspired by the real Scottish town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, follows a group of colorful characters who use friendship and teamwork to solve everyday problems. Now, two new series of Balamory have been announced, and Kim is thrilled to be back. She told Radio Newcastle that it was 'so much fun' to return to the show and that she felt a lot of love from Balamory fans. Kim said she was 'absolutely thrilled' when she got the call to come back. She also shared how important it was for her to play Penny Pocket again, especially as someone who uses a wheelchair. She explained that when the show was on before, many disabled children would travel long distances just to meet her. Seeing someone like themselves on TV meant a lot to them.

Balamory was a huge hit in the early 2000s, attracting up to two million viewers a week in the UK and millions more around the world. Kim said it was 'thrilling' to step back into Penny Pocket's shoes. She is not the only original cast member returning. Julie Wilson Nimmo will reprise her role as Miss Hoolie, Andrew Agnew will be back as PC Plum, and Juliet Cadzow will return as Edie McCredie. The new episodes are being filmed in Tobermory, just like the original series. Kim described the experience as 'really surreal' but also a lot of fun. She enjoyed seeing her old friends from the show and making new ones too. Kim said she couldn't believe that 20 years had passed so quickly. She also mentioned that her 18-month-old granddaughter will now be able to watch her on Balamory, which she finds a bit strange but also exciting.

The new series of Balamory are being produced by Lion Television Scotland, with each series containing 10 episodes. The show will air on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer starting on 20 April, 2026. Kim and the rest of the cast are excited to bring Balamory to a new generation of children and families. The show is known for its bright colors, catchy songs, and positive messages about friendship and problem-solving. Kim is proud to be part of a show that helps children feel seen and included. She hopes the new episodes will bring joy to both old fans and new viewers. The Balamory team is also encouraging fans to share their stories and ideas, making everyone feel part of the Balamory community. Kim says returning to Balamory is a dream come true, and she can't wait for everyone to join in the fun again.