Alan was born in Weston-super-Mare, a charming coastal town in England, and later attended Hedley Goodall School in Bristol, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and academic excellence.
As a young individual, Alan began his journey in the world of radio by working for the BBC in Bristol, honing his skills and gaining valuable experience in the industry.
Prior to pursuing a career in the arts, Alan spent four years serving in the Royal Navy, where he developed a strong sense of discipline and dedication.
In 1946, Alan made his professional debut as a schoolboy in the Exercise Bowler production at The Arts Theatre, London, sharing the stage with notable actors such as Willam Fox, Geoffrey Keene, and Mark Dignam.
Throughout his illustrious career, spanning over several decades, Alan had the privilege of working alongside many prominent UK artists, including some of the most celebrated names in the industry, with the exception of Laurence Olivier and John Gielgud.
His extensive theatrical experience included a remarkable 10 shows in the West End, as well as numerous touring productions, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile performer.
In addition to his impressive stage career, Alan also made a significant impact in the world of film and television, with his earliest credits including a short film for Edgar Lustgarden and notable appearances in series such as Softly Softly (1966),Dad's Army (1971),Van der Valk (1972),and No Hiding Place (1959).
One of his most memorable roles was as Michael Gambon's grandfather in the 2001 film Perfect Strangers.