Actors Ray Brooks, Frank Grimes Die Aged 86, 78

Ray Brooks, a beloved English actor known for narrating the 1970s children's TV show Mr Benn and his roles in Coronation Street and EastEnders, has died at the age of 86 after a short illness. His family revealed that he had been living with dementia in his final years and passed away peacefully with loved ones by his side. Brooks' career spanned television, film, and theatre, including notable appearances in Cathy Come Home, Big Deal, and the Doctor Who film Daleks' Invasion Earth: 2150 A.D., as well as stage roles in works by Alan Ayckbourn and Tom Stoppard. His narration of Mr Benn, despite only 13 episodes being produced, left a lasting legacy through repeated broadcasts over two decades. Separately, Irish actor Frank Grimes, known for his portrayal of Barry Connor on Coronation Street and his acclaimed theatre work including a Tony-nominated Broadway performance, died aged 78 following a brief illness. The Irish Cultural Centre paid tribute to Grimes, highlighting his significant contributions to theatre and television over several decades.