READERS have paid respects to the 'voice of their childhoods'.

Bernard Cribbins, who narrated The Wombles and starred in the film adaptation of The Railway Children, has died aged 93, his agent said.

The veteran actor also appeared in Doctor Who and the Carry On series in a career which spanned seven decades.

Cribbins’ agent, Gavin Barker Associates, said in a statement: “Beloved actor Bernard Cribbins OBE has passed away at the age of 93. His career spanned seven decades with such diverse work ranging from films like ‘The Railway Children’ and the ‘Carry On’ series, hit 60’s song ‘Right Said Fred’, a notorious guest on ‘Fawlty Towers’ and narrating ‘The Wombles’.

“He worked well into his 90’s, recently appearing in ‘Doctor Who’ and the CBeebies series ‘Old Jack’s Boat’. He lost his wife of 66 years, Gill, last year.

“Bernard’s contribution to British entertainment is without question. He was unique, typifying the best of his generation, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing and working with him.”

Readers praised the actor for providing ‘years of entertainment’.

Maggie Pease said: “RIP ...a brilliant actor...fly high...”

Christine Berry said: “RIP Bernard. Thanks for the years of entertainment you gave us x”

Vera Langhorn said: “Aw bless him . RIP.”

Peter Cairns said: “Another much loved Thespian leaves this world. This gentleman will sadly be missed. R I P Bernard. Thanks for endless hours of entertainment.”

Anne Walker said: “Brilliant actor RIP Bernard xx”

Laura Thomson said: “Aww so many childhood memories. RIP Bernard. Xx”

Janet Bury said: “Seemed like a great guy.”

Pamela Carr said: “RIP such a shame... great actor xx”

Liz Leech said: “R.I.P to the voice I remember so well from much of my childhood xx”

Ange O'Halloran said: “Such a good actor. Will be missed.”

Lucy Wilde said: “I wanted to live with The Wombles when I was a kid.”

Stewart Black said: “Expert fly fisherman as well.”