Career
Born in Exeter, Devon, his ruddy-cheeked complexion and West Country accent meant he would often be found playing innkeepers, policemen or yokels, most prominently in horror and comedy films. Making his film debut in 1940 in The Big Blockade, he went on to appear in films such as,, The Queen of Spades (1949),,, and Richard III (1955). His horror film appearances include:, The Revenge of Frankenstein (1958), Jack the Ripper (1959), The Flesh and the Fiends (1959),, Dracula: Prince of Darkness (1966), The Reptile (1966) and Doomwatch (1972).
He also appeared in two Mont Rose James adaptations on television, in the Mystery and Imagination episode "Room 13" and the Omnibus episode "Whistle and I"ll Come to You".
His jovial manner lent itself to comedy films as well, including, Three Men in a Boat (1956),, Raising the Wind,, Only Two Can Play (1962), Nurse on Wheels,, Carry On Jack,, All the Way Up (1970), and He also appeared as the sergeant in the Stryker of the Yard featurettes during the 1950s.
He first appeared on television before the Second World War, and went on to feature in popular series such Adam Adamant Lives!, Armchair Theatre, Benny Hill, Dixon of Dock Green, The Forsyte Saga, The Persuaders! and Softly Softly. He gained popularity late in his career as the titular puppet-maker in the children"s television show Inigo Pipkin.
Unfortunately, he died five weeks into the filming of the second series, an occurrence which was dealt with in the programme"s storyline.
The series continued for another seven years however under the title, Pipkins. Carry On Jack.