Ballard Berkeley

Ballard Berkeley (born "Ballard Blascheckon" 6th August 1903, died 16th January 1988) appeared in Coronation Street in February 1971 as Colonel Cantrill.

He made his professional stage debut in 1928, and performed for many years in London's West End and in New York theatres. His film credits date from 1930 and he made many "Quota Quicky" British films though he was in some more prestigious productions such as In Which We Serve and Stage Fright.

On television, he gained immortality as Major Gowen in all twelve episodes of the seminal comedy Fawlty Towers, appearing in a part which was a speciality of his - the retired army officer. In this role, and others, he also appeared in No Hiding Place, Maigret, Dr. Finlay's Casebook, United!, The Newcomers, The Main Chance, Dixon of Dock Green, Comedy Playhouse, Bless This House, Father Dear Father, Just William, The Dick Emery Show, To The Manor Born, Are You Being Served?, Fresh Fields and Terry and June.

On radio, he played Colonel Danby in The Archers for many years, taking over the part after the previous actor, Norman Shelley, died. This was in addition to be heard in ''What Ho! Jeeves, Wrinkles and Afternoon Theatre''.