Ian Gardiner

Ian Gardiner began his life on the boards at Maidstone Grammar School during the Second World War, when as a member of the school's dramatic society he was called upon to play the lead in Henry V at the age of just 14. At that time, the young Ian, who was also vice-captain of the School's 1st XV, lived with his mother, Dr Anna Gardiner, a GP in Lenham. Mr Gardiner, doubtless hoping his career might continue to parallel another young actor just making his name in the same role - one Larry Olivier - determined on a life in the theatre. His lucky break came in 1954 when he secured the juvenile lead in a West End production called The Love Match, where he played the son of Thora Hird and Arthur Askey. The title of the play proved rather prophetic, as it was there he met and married the female understudy, Janet Davies, whose own career later included playing the role of Pike's mother in Dad's Army. He continued to work until 2000 when osteoarthritis and a knee replacement operation forced his retirement.