George and Mildred Actor Norman Eshley Dies Aged 80 from Cancer

Norman Eshley, best known for his role as the snobbish neighbour Jeffrey Fourmile in the 1970s ITV sitcom George and Mildred, has died at the age of 80 after a battle with cancer. He died on August 2 at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital with his wife Rachel by his side. Eshley began his career in Shakespearean plays and appeared in film and television, including Orson Welles' 1968 drama The Immortal Story and TV shows like Canterbury Tales and Warship. Later in life, he turned to writing, co-authoring a sequel to Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist titled The Dreamtime Of The Artful Dodger. Remembered as a warm and grounded man, Eshley was praised by his agent and wife for his kindness and talent. His performance as Jeffrey Fourmile remains a standout in British television comedy.