Are You Being Served? actor Frank Thornton dies

By ANGUS HOWARTH
Published on 18/03/2013 14:41

THE actor who played Captain Peacock in ‘Are You Being Served?’, Frank Thornton, has passed away in his sleep at the age of 92.

His agent David Daly confirmed that he had died in the early hours of Saturday morning

The star was famous for his role as Captain Peacock in Are You Being Served? and as Truly in Last Of The Summer Wine.

His agent said: “Frank was a much loved British actor who played mainly comedy roles and is perhaps best known for his role as Captain Peacock in Are You Being Served? and latterly as Truly in Last Of The Summer Wine.

“Frank is survived by Beryl, his wife of 67 years, daughter Jane and their three grandchildren.

“I have been Frank’s agent since 1986 and he has been the most wonderful client as well as being a great friend. He will be sorely missed.”

Are You Being Served? co-creator Jeremy Lloyd paid tribute to Thornton.

He said: “He was a great friend and consummate performer who was the glue who really held Are You Being Served? together,” he said.

“He will continue to give people enjoyment.”

Thornton, who was born in Dulwich, had worked in insurance after leaving school but studied to become an actor with evening classes, eventually leaving his job to study full time.

He was the last of the original main members of the cast of Are You Being Served?. He also went on to appear in its successor series, Grace & Favour.

In more recent years he was familiar to viewers for his role as Truly in long-running Last Of The Summer Wine, alongside a roster of veteran comedy actors.

He specialised in comedy and over the years took roles in many popular TV shows including Hancock’s Half-Hour, Sykes and Steptoe And Son, as well as movie spin-off Steptoe And Son Ride Again.

Thornton also appeared in a number of saucy British movie romps including No Sex Please, We’re British and Up The Chastity Belt.