Terry Walsh

Terry Walsh (5 May 1939 – 21 April 2002) was a British actor, stuntman, stunt arranger and fight arranger who contributed much to British television and film, especially during the 1970s. He stunt-doubled for Jon Pertwee, Michael Caine, Tom Baker and David Warner amongst others.

Early life

Intending to become a research chemist whilst studying at college, Walsh failed his degree due to spending too much time playing in a jazz band. Following a spell in the army, he drove a friend to a film studio. There, he was impressed by a 60ft fall performed by Paddy Ryan, an honorary figure in the British stunt industry. For two years, Ryan proceeded to teach Walsh the various stunts and tricks of the trade.

Career

Walsh is known for his work on the science fiction television programme Doctor Who. He worked on the show from 1966 to 1979.

He was also the stunt co-ordinator for Robin of Sherwood, devising three sword fighting sequences, which subsequently became standard movements on television and film. The moves were known as Robin Hood 1, 2 and 3. Another Sherwood Forest-related production was Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves where Walsh flew out to the States to train Kevin Costner on how to fight with various weapons for his role as Robin Hood. In return, the movie star rewarded the stuntman with a visit to the top restaurant in Hollywood.

His other credits include The Sandbaggers, Tales of the Unexpected, Z-Cars, Space: 1999, Dixon of Dock Green and Softly, Softly.

Personal life

When he wasn't stunting, Walsh drove a black-cab from Edgware station taxi-rank. With fellow stuntman Ken Sheppard, he ran a gun shop, Fieldsports Ltd in Totteridge Lane, Whetstone.

Filmography

Doctor Who