AN EVENING WITH ANN MING AND SHERIDEN SMITH
‘I FOUGHT THE LAW’ ITV SUNDAY AUGUST 31 st
THE Weardale Gazette was fortunate enough to attend the screening of the new ITV docu-drama of
the true story of the murder of Julie Hogg and her mother’s Herculean fight to change the law to
secure the conviction of her daughter’s killer.
The premiere, held at the Gala Theatre in Durham, was attended by the cast and crew of the
four-part series that promises to hit the headlines after its debut on Sunday. Ann Ming is played by
celebrated actress, Sheridan Smith who was also at the screening, which received a standing
ovation.
The story of Julie Hogg and her mother Ann Ming is one of the most harrowing and courageous
true crime cases ever brought to screen. I Fought The Law recounts the brutal 1989 murder of 22-
year-old Julie Hogg in Billingham—and the extraordinary 15-year battle her mother waged to
overturn the 800-year-old double jeopardy law that initially let her daughter’s killer walk free.
The most gut-wrenching moment is when Ann Ming herself discovers Julie’s body hidden behind a
bath panel—after police had searched the home and dismissed her concerns. This moment is
powerfully captured and to watch it knowing Mrs Ming was in the audience watching it too made for
uncomfortable viewing.
But Ann Ming is made of stern stuff and she gave the audience a taste of that determination in
the question and answer session after the screening of the first episode in the Gala.
Interviewed by Peter Holland, a former journalist and presenter with Tyne Tees TV, Ann Ming
answered his questions in front of the live audience with dignity and a touch of humour retelling her
fight for justice for her daughter. Sheridan Smith was also part of the interview and at times was
almost in tears, showing a strong bond with the lady she portrayed. The script-writer and Director
were on the panel too and both paid glowing tributes to the courage of Ann Ming.
Ann’s efforts led to a landmark change in the law under the 2003 Criminal Justice Act, allowing
retrials when new and compelling evidence emerges. In 2006, Julie’s killer, Billy Dunlop, became the
first person in UK history to be convicted of murder under the revised law. He was sentenced to life
in prison. Late last year, he applied for parole but withdrew the application after protests from Ann
and instead asked to be moved to an open prison.
This isn’t just a crime story—it’s a testament to a mother’s love and the power of persistence.
The docu-drama doesn’t shy away from the horror, but it also highlights the hope and change that
can come from unimaginable pain.
The docu-drama in four parts was brought to TV by Hera Pictures, an independent film and
television production company aided by Northern Screen. ‘I Fought the Law’ – ITV Sunday August
31 st . It promises to make as many headlines regarding the incredible inadequacies of the criminal
justice system just as the drama about the Post Maters and Mistresses did about the Post Office.
Don’t miss it.
