Edward Woodward 1930 - 2009

The well-loved actor Edward Woodward has died in hospital today aged 79.  He had been suffering from various illnesses including pneumonia.

Woodward cut his acting teeth with appearances in such shows as Dixon of Dock Green,  The Saint and Armchair Theatre before the latter secured him the title role of Callan in the late 60's spy drama.  However, it was his career-defining role as the idealistic, clean-living Sergeant Howie in 1973's The Wicker Man and that of Robert McCall in 80's drama The Equalizer that he will be best remembered.

He continued working regularly until his untimely death with a recent memorable performance as CCTV obsessive Tom Weaver in Edgar Wright's Hot Fuzz and a short run in Eastenders this Spring.

He is suvived by his wife Michele Dotrice and four children Tim, Peter, Sarah and Emily all of whom are actors.