After his mother's tragic passing, he was taken in by his grandmother, who played a pivotal role in his life. At the tender age of 12, he discovered his passion for theatre when he joined Sir Philip Game Boys Club in Croydon, a prestigious institution run by a seasoned music hall performer. This marked the beginning of his journey in the world of entertainment.
His grandmother's enthusiasm for theatre was contagious, and she often took him to see live performances. One of his earliest and most memorable shows was a production starring G.H. Elliott at the iconic Croydon Empire. As he grew older, he began working at a market stall to earn pocket money, but his true calling remained in the world of show business.
At the age of 15, he took the stage in a boys' club concert, where he was spotted by the renowned comedian Michael Bentine. Bentine's words of wisdom were instrumental in shaping his future, advising him to pursue a career in show business. However, he was first required to complete his military service, a duty that he fulfilled before embarking on his professional journey.
Following his military service, he took his first steps on the show business ladder by forming a double act with a friend from the boys club. This early collaboration laid the foundation for his future success.
Throughout his illustrious career, he remained committed to giving back to the industry that had given him so much. He eventually became the chairman of the Entertainment Artists Benevolent Association, a testament to his dedication to the craft.
In his personal life, he was married twice. His first marriage was to Ann, whom he eventually divorced in 1983. He later married Debbie, with whom he shared a loving relationship.
