Fireman Sam star dies aged 55 just days before Christmas

Actor David Carling has died at the age of 55.

The star was best known for voicing Station Officer Steele in Fireman Sam.

Part of the show since 2008, the actor also voiced other characters, such as Chief Fire Officer Boyce and Trevor Evans.

It's been confirmed he died on December 10, as tributes poured in online.

A spokesperson for his agency, Just Voices Agency, stated: "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 has been set up in the actor's memory, with the target total of £250, already being surpassed as £1,300 has been raised.

Messages left on the page read: "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."

More tributes were shared on X with one fan writing: "I am very saddened to hear about the death of David Carling, the voice of Station Officer Steele, Chief Fire Officer Boyce, Trevor Evans, Mike Flood and Tom Thomas in the CGI series of Fireman Sam."

Another added: "Devastating to hear the news of David Carling, Fireman Sam VA of Steele, Tom Thomas, Mike Flood from Series 6-16, taking over from John Sparkes in S5, has now died. Can only imagine what it's like for his family just days before Christmas. Not really a time you'd want to mourn."