Water Rat Number: 572
Roy Castle was one of Britain’s most versatile and best-loved entertainers. A gifted dancer, singer, comedian, actor, television presenter and musician, he possessed the rare ability to move effortlessly between comedy, music, dance and drama. An accomplished jazz trumpeter, he could also play numerous other instruments.
Born in Scholes, near Holmfirth in Yorkshire, on 31 August 1932, Roy developed a love of performing from an early age. He trained as a tap dancer and began his professional career during the 1950s, appearing in variety and working alongside established comedians before developing into a successful solo entertainer.
His appearance in the 1958 Royal Variety Performance proved an important moment in his career. Roy’s performance was widely praised, and he returned to the Royal Variety stage on several occasions during his career.
Roy became a familiar face on stage, television and film. His screen appearances included Dr. Who and the Daleks, Dr. Terror’s House of Horrors and Carry On Up the Khyber. He also played Sam Weller in the stage and screen musical Pickwick, appearing alongside his close friend and fellow entertainer Sir Harry Secombe.
He is perhaps best remembered as the long-serving presenter of the BBC television programme Record Breakers. Joining the programme in 1972, Roy remained its much-loved host for more than 20 years. He also performed its memorable theme song, Dedication, which perfectly reflected both the programme and Roy’s own approach to life.
Roy was not content simply to introduce the achievements of others and became a record breaker himself. His accomplishments included achieving 1,440 tap-dance steps in a minute and completing one million taps in 23 hours and 44 minutes during a charity challenge in 1985.
In 1992, Roy was diagnosed with lung cancer despite having never smoked. He became a prominent campaigner for greater awareness of lung cancer and the dangers of passive smoking. Even as his health declined, he continued raising funds for research and patient care.
In July 1994, Roy undertook his courageous Tour of Hope, travelling across Britain to raise awareness and support for the proposed international lung cancer research centre. His fundraising and campaigning helped establish the legacy now continued by the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation.
Roy’s immense charitable contribution was recognised when he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in the 1993 New Year Honours for charitable services.
A proud member of the Grand Order of Water Rats, Roy was registered as Water Rat Number 572. His warmth, professionalism and dedication to helping others embodied the values and charitable traditions of the Order.
Roy Castle died on 2 September 1994, just two days after his 62nd birthday. He is remembered as an exceptional all-round entertainer, an inspirational charity campaigner and a much-loved Water Rat whose talent, courage and generosity continue to touch lives today.
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