Ray Alan has died suddenly at the age of 79.

He was described by his agent as being “Technically he was regarded as Britain’s top ventriloquist. You just couldn’t see his mouth moving.”

Ray started his ventriloquism career during his teen years by creating the illusion that voices were coming from boxes. In 1954 he worked with Laurel and Hardy.

He was regularly on TV during the 1950s – 1970s. He also performed at Bob Hope’s 82nd birthday bash.

His best known puppet was Lord Charles, known for the catch-phrase “you silly arse” and with an eye for the ladies. He was based on an upper-class toff with a liking for the ladies and booze. His face was based on Laurel Hardy.

He was a great talent and will be missed. Here is a video of him performing at his best with Lord Charles.

 

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Here is a link to his obituary on the BBC;

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment_and_arts/10147436.stm

Also on the BBC is an article inspired by Ray Alan about the recent history of ventriloquism:-

It Starts:

The death of British comedian Ray Alan recalls a lost age when ventriloquists were cosy family entertainment favourites. Today, they are more likely to be found at the cutting edge of subversive alternative comedy.

You can read the rest here;-

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/magazine/8702845.stm

 

 

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