BORN in Warrington, May 19th 1966, Polly Walker began her career as a dancer but an injury at 18 forced her to change direction.

She went from London's Drama Centre to the RSC, where she played small parts before graduating to roles on TV.

She landed the title role in the TV series Lorna Doone (1990), and commanded attention in 1992 Harrison Ford blockbuster Patriot Games, playing ruthless terrorist Annette.

Polly has also received good views for stage appearances including Finding the Sun in 2001.

In 2005, Polly played the role of Atia of the Julii, the niece of Caesar and the lover of Mark Anthony in the epic TV drama, Rome.