Persephone[1] "Penny" Valentine is a fictional character from the BBC medical drama television series Holby City, portrayed by actress Emma Catherwood.

Penny was introduced alongside her younger brother, Oliver (James Anderson), as a Foundation House Officer 1 (F1) on surgical rotation at Holby City Hospital.

She observed several bypass operations as preparation for the role, which she described as a "wonderful experience" which she felt privileged to attend, and also learned how to insert a cannula and central line.

[3] The BBC Holby City website describes Penny as "outgoing, playful and stylish", assessing that "she always seems positive", is "determined to learn everything about everything" and that "nothing stands in her way".

Although Scott ultimately breaks up with Penny on Oliver's advice, Catherwood felt that the development actually made the siblings' relationship stronger, explaining: "You forgive your family for an enormous amount.

The actress hoped that Penny would improve at her job in the future, though commented that none of the remaining Holby City characters were a suitable match for her romantically.

Registrar Jac Naylor takes an instant dislike to her, and ignores her request to work on the hospital's Acute Assessment Unit, placing her instead on the general surgery ward, Keller.

During an unrelated case, Penny convinces a reluctant husband to donate his deceased wife's organs, unaware that Scott will be the recipient of her heart.