Her biggest role came through her casting as receptionist Lizzie Hopkirk (Kennoway) in ITV UK TV series "The Royal". The 1960s-set hospital drama was a spin-off from "Heartbeat" and soon gathered popularity on its own account. Hardwick's portrayal of the ditzy Lizzie (often referred to as "Dizzy Lizzie") was a firm favourite amongst viewers. Lizzie delivered some very funny lines, including "A woman needs a fish like a man needs a bicycle". In 2012, she had a minor role in "Hollyoaks" as D.I. Parker, who arrested established character Mitzeee (Rachel Shenton).