David Eric Allan, a distinguished British actor celebrated for his enduring roles in beloved television and radio dramas, passed away on February 8, 2026, at the age of 85. Fans paid tribute to Allan on social media, with some calling him a 'legend in the industry' and acknowledging his significant contributions to Emmerdale and The Archers. The Liverpool Echo described him as an 'extremely nice man' in their tribute.

Born David Eric Allan in Tidworth, Wiltshire, England, on March 8, 1940, his early life also saw him brought up in Keighley, West Riding of Yorkshire, and Wolverhampton. His mother, Winnie (née Ambler), was a midwife who had trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama and later taught drama, while his father, Eric Allan, served in the army before becoming a maths teacher. When he was 15, his family relocated to Canada, but his passion for acting drew him back to Britain at the age of 18. He honed his craft at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) from 1960 to 1963, laying the groundwork for a versatile career that would encompass stage, screen, and radio.

Following his training, Allan gained valuable experience with repertory companies in Leicester and Nottingham in 1964, and a stint at the Mermaid Theatre in London. He then joined the esteemed Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) in 1966, participating in productions such as Denis Cannan's anti-Vietnam war play US, and later touring the US playing the pope in Doctor Faustus. His acting career began in 1967 with an appearance in 'The Wednesday Play', and he had early guest roles in 'Z Cars' and 'Barlow'.

His cinematic debut came in Peter Brook's 1968 film adaptation of Tell Me Lies, and he notably starred in Mike Leigh's critically acclaimed first feature film, Bleak Moments, in 1971. In Bleak Moments, his understated performance as Peter, a socially awkward teacher, resonated deeply with audiences, with Leigh aiming to portray "a couple kissing the way it happens and not the way people always kiss in movies." Allan also collaborated with Leigh on stage in 'Babies Grow Old' at the RSC and in 'Smelling a Rat', and on television as a quarry worker in 'Nuts in May'.

Allan became a familiar face on British television, joining Emmerdale Farm in December 1972 as blacksmith Frank Blakey, who rented the village forge. His marriage to Janie Harker (Diane Grayson) in 1973 was the serial's first wedding, with Jack Sugden (Andrew Burt) serving as best man. Frank was known for his strong opposition to hunting, a stance that led to him being threatened with eviction, a story covered by the fictional 'Hotten Courier' with the headline 'Anti-blood sport blacksmith victimised by landlord'. He remained with the series until 1974, leaving after being offered a teaching post in Essex.

Throughout his career, he made numerous guest appearances in popular shows, including a memorable role as con artist Les Fox in Coronation Street in 1977. He also had parts in 'The New Avengers', 'Bergerac', 'The Bill', 'Heartbeat', and 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes'. Other notable television roles included playing a tabloid sports editor, Reg Prosser, opposite David Warner in the BBC series 'Hold the Back Page' in 1985, and a guest role in 'EastEnders'.

In 1997, Allan embarked on what would become one of his most cherished roles, taking over as Bert Fry in The Archers from Roger Hume, who had died the previous year. For 24 years, he brought to life the poetry-loving farmhand, who worked for Phil Archer, and later for Phil's son David and daughter-in-law Ruth at Brookfield Farm. Bert, a character often providing warmth and light relief amidst more serious storylines, participated in local events and recited folklore, endearing him to millions of listeners.

Bert Fry's wife, Freda, was a 'silent' character in The Archers, known for her cooking. Freda died in 2015 of pneumonia after being swept away in a flood, prompting Bert to write a heartfelt poem in her honor. Allan stated in a 2021 interview that Bert Fry was a character the production team would turn to for 'light relief' when storylines became too depressing. He also noted that people didn't tend to recognize him because he didn't use his normal speaking voice when playing Bert Fry.

His quiet influence, professionalism, and ability to inhabit characters with genuine warmth earned him the respect of colleagues and the affection of a wide audience. The Guardian published a detailed obituary providing in-depth analysis of his roles and character portrayals. He will be remembered for his significant contributions to British theatre, film, and particularly for his enduring presence in the nation's most beloved long-running dramas.

David Eric Allan is survived by his devoted wife, Susan, whom he married in 1963, their daughter, Christie, son, Mike, and five grandsons.