Eric Allan, the veteran actor known for his roles in both Emmerdale and The Archers, has died at the age of 85.
Mr Allan portrayed the blacksmith Frank Blakey when the ITV soap first launched in 1972, back when it was still called Emmerdale Farm.
His character featured prominently in a landmark moment for the programme, walking down the aisle with Janie Harker in what became the series’ inaugural wedding ceremony.
The actor departed from the Yorkshire-based drama in January 1974, before it was later relaunched as the primetime show viewers know today.
Eric Allan starred as Frank Blakey in Emmerdale Farm
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ITV
Following his departure from Emmerdale, Mr Allan established himself as a stalwart of British radio drama through his portrayal of farmer Bert Fry in BBC Radio 4’s The Archers, a role he maintained for approximately 25 years.
His screen credits extended beyond soap opera work, with appearances in The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes adding to his television portfolio.
Mr Allan also took the lead role in Bleak Moments, the controversial debut feature film from director Mike Leigh, a collaboration that emerged from his time working in theatre.
The actor was born in 1940 to a soldier and a drama tutor, spending his formative years between Yorkshire and Wolverhampton.
Eric Allan starred in Emmerdale Farm from 1972 to 1974
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ITV
At 15, his family relocated to Canada, though he returned to Britain three years later to pursue formal training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
His professional career began on the stages of Leicester and Nottingham before he joined the Royal Shakespeare Company for an extended period.
It was during this theatrical chapter that his collaboration with Mike Leigh began, ultimately leading to his starring role in the director’s provocative first film.
His work on The Archers introduced the actor to an entirely different audience, with the long-running radio serial commanding a devoted listenership that has followed the fictional community of Ambridge for generations.
The role solidified Mr Allan’s reputation as one of British soap opera’s most experienced performers.
His professional career commenced on the regional theatre circuit, with early performances in Leicester and Nottingham before he joined the prestigious Royal Shakespeare Company for an extended period.
It was during his time with the RSC that Allan forged a creative partnership with director Mike Leigh, ultimately taking the lead role in Leigh’s debut feature film.
Throughout his career, Allan demonstrated versatility that allowed him to move between stage, screen and radio with equal facility.
He is survived by his wife Susan, along with their son and daughter.