Raymond: Suspects in the spotlight

Raymond’s quest for justice has fatal consequences as he digs deeper to uncover corruption. Alan, Frank and Alex all have reason to silence Raymond but which one of these Shieldinch suspects will have blood on their hands?

We spoke to the actors playing the trio of suspects to seek out answers.

Played by Jordan Young

He has tried in the past to do the right thing, however he has been seduced by the possibility of vast wealth

Does Alex have murder in mind?

Alex needs Raymond silenced. Not only could he expose that Alex knew the land was contaminated he could also reveal that the whole deal was dodgy in the first place between Paton and Alex. Alex's entire business, reputation and relationship is on the line.

Is he guilty by association or ruthlessly ambitious?

He has tried in the past to do the right thing, however he has been seduced by the possibility of vast wealth. He turns a blind eye to things he knows is wrong. He is Billy Kennedy's nephew after all...

Do you think Alex has got in too deep or enjoys dangerous business deals?

He is certainly in too deep, but that doesn't mean he's not enjoying the thrill of it and the potential rewards. He's aware of all he has to lose but also knows what he could gain.

What does Alex stand to lose if the corruption is exposed?

Alex is a self-made man. He's worked hard for his business empire. He has ploughed a large portion of his wealth into the development. His girlfriend Kelly's mother had cancer, and the changed report hides the fact there are high levels of chromium (which is related to cancer) in the soil. He could lose his empire and his relationship if this comes out.

And finally, make a plea for innocence on Alex’s behalf…

He was duped into the development by councillor Paton. He firmly believed it would improve the community. He thought Turnbull who wrote the original report was a blackmailer, this made him think that the land was safe. Alex is not a killer, he has tried to be a legit businessman despite the reputation of some of his family.

Played by Stephen McCole

Alan considers himself a principled man and being part of the chromium cover-up hasn’t rested easy with him

Does Alan have murder in mind?

Who knows? Maybe. You’ll need to watch to find out…

What’s in it for him to keep Raymond silenced?

Alan considers himself a principled man and being part of the chromium cover-up hasn’t rested easy with him. If he could turn back time he would have never got involved in this project as it’s brought him nothing but trouble. For him, his professional reputation is on the line and he’s worked hard to build himself into the businessman he is. He has too much to lose.

Is he guilty by association or more manipulative than some believe?

Absolutely by association. He’s got into a deal with two people who have driven the project in a direction he was never comfortable with. The trouble is, to those on the outside looking in, he’s a player in their game.

What is it about Raymond that winds Alan up?

He’s just on edge because he knows Raymond has the potential to expose everything and as much as he might agree with his principled stance, it would be so much easier if Raymond would just turn a blind eye. Like he has.

Is Alan his own worst enemy when it comes to anger and frustration?

He’s fairly hot-headed I’d say but he’s also passionate and ferociously protective of people he cares about. But, because he can come across as angry, some see him as unpredictable.

And finally, make a plea for innocence on Alan’s behalf…

He’s a good man keeping very bad company. Don’t judge him.

Played by Paul Thomas Hickey

Frank can't control himself. He’s always looking for opportunities that will boost his career and bank balance

Does Frank have murder in mind?

Definitely not! The situation gets out of control. Frank can't afford for the truth to be revealed and will go to any lengths to protect himself but he never expected things to go so far.

What’s in it for him to keep Raymond silenced?

Raymond has to be silenced to keep Frank's career and reputation intact.

Is he guilty by association or ruthlessly ambitious?

The more power he has, the more he wants. His position at the Council and his status in the community are paramount to Frank.

What is it about Raymond that frustrates Frank?

Raymond is getting involved in things that really don't concern him. The fact he will not take himself out of the situation pushes Frank to the limit.

Is Frank as calculating and cold as he’d like everyone to believe?

Frank can't control himself. He’s always looking for opportunities that will boost his career and bank balance. Using whoever along the way to get what he wants but always saying his actions "are the best thing for the people".

And finally, make a plea for innocence on Frank’s behalf…

It is hard to defend Frank but he’s a man under extreme pressure, who sees his world unravelling.