Bernard Cribbins, Railway Children star and Wombles narrator, dies aged 93

Virgin Radio

28 Jul 2022, 08:42

Veteran actor Bernard Cribbins has died at the age of 93, his agent has said.

The much-loved actor played station porter Albert Perks in the 1970 film adaptation of The Railway Children. He also appeared in Doctor Who, where he played Wilfred Mott, and he famously narrated kids’ TV series, The Wombles.

A statement from Gavin Barker Associates said: “Beloved actor Bernard Cribbins OBE has passed away at the age of 93. His career spanned seven decades with such diverse work ranging from films like The Railway Children and the Carry On series, hit 60s song Right Said Fred, a notorious guest on Fawlty Towers and narrating The Wombles.”

The statement continued: “He worked well into his 90s, recently appearing in Doctor Who and the CBeebies series Old Jack's Boat. He lost his wife of 66 years, Gill, last year.

“Bernard's contribution to British entertainment is without question. He was unique, typifying the best of his generation, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.”

Tributes are pouring in across social media for the actor and singer, who in 2011 received an OBE for services to drama. 

Charlatans frontman Tim Burgess wrote: “Farewell Bernard Cribbins. Safe travels”.

Presenter Iain Lee wrote: “I grew up watching him and then so did my kids. Thanks for making my boys laugh. Bernard Cribbins RIP.”

Matt Lucas posted: "Thank you Bernard Cribbins for delighting us all. A lovely, funny, brilliantly talented man."

Peep Show actor Paul Clayton said: “So sorry to hear of the loss of the irreplaceable Bernard Cribbins. A lovely man, a huge ball of energy, and a joy. RIP.”

Broadcaster and writer Julia Raeside added: “The loveliest actor there ever was has left the stage. Fly high, Bernard Cribbins. (We’ll still see him in new Doctor Who.) 💔”

And Doctor Who showrunner Russell T Davies took to Instagram to write a tribute, in which he said: "I love this man. I love him," and "I'm so lucky to have known him."

The thoughts of everyone at Virgin Radio go out to Bernard’s family and friends.