Actor who played iconic children’s TV character dies aged 55 as tributes flood in to ‘versatile & talented artist’

AN ACTOR who played an iconic children's TV character has died aged 55 - as tributes flood in to the "versatile and talented artist".

David Carling, who was the voice of Station Officer Steele in Fireman Sam, passed away on December 10.

A source confirmed: "David died earlier this month. It's terrible news and very sad for everyone who knew him. He was lovely to work with and a true professional."

As well as Station Officer Steele, David also played Chief Fire Officer Boyce and Trevor Evans on the show, which he joined in 2008.

Among the loving tributes to David was one long statement from his agency, Just Voices Agency.

A spokesperson wrote: "We are devastated to announce the tragic news that the wonderful David Carling passed away last Tuesday.

"He was a much beloved father, husband, friend, actor and voiceover artist and will be hugely missed by everyone that knew and worked with him."

A fundraiser was launched nine days ago on Just Giving in memory of David - on behalf of SOHO's sound engineers.

It has already surpassed its target of £250, with £1,347 raised by 36 people so far.

It reads: "We are very saddened to hear of the loss of one of Soho's great Voice over Artists, David Carling.

"Those who have had the pleasure to work and meet David, would all agree he would lighten up a room with his smile and wonderful sense of humour.

"A fantastically versatile and talented artist his voice has been heard by so many.

"On behalf of Soho's sound engineers and anyone else that would like to leave a donation please feel free to here and add any messages for David. We wish his family all the love we can through this tough time.

"You give a little love an it all comes back to you, you know you're gonna be remembered for the things that you said and do.

"We'll miss ya love."

Several people left messages to David on the fundraising page, with one writing: "Very sad news indeed. He was a lovely man and great fun to work with."

Another described David as "one of life's genuinely lovely people".

And a third wrote: ";A truly horrible shock. What a lovely, lovely man he was."