Although he reached America in 1923, Alan Mowbray did not arrive in Hollywood until 1931. He soon became a Hollywood supporting actor of the Thirties and Forties.

At first, he was cast as prissy and pompous types but was soon to be fairly well established in manservant roles.

He was excellent as valet to Roland Young in one of the zany Topper movies.

In 1938, Mowbray and the whole Hal Roach studio lot were asked to think of a story for Ronald Coleman.

Mowbray suggested Kindling - first made in 1915 as a five-reeler - to which Roach turned down both thumbs. MGM, however, paid £7,000 to produce it in England.

-Gordon Dean, St Luke's Road, Brighton