The day the man who became Darth Vader came to Kirkcaldy

The death of actor Dave Prowse - the man who played Darth Vader in the original Star Wars film trilogy - has sparked memories of his visit to Fife.
Green Cross Code Man Dave Prowse in Kirkcaldy in 1984Green Cross Code Man Dave Prowse in Kirkcaldy in 1984
Green Cross Code Man Dave Prowse in Kirkcaldy in 1984

It came long before he found global fame as part of the smash hit movies, and when he as best known for arguably an even more influential role.

In the 1970s, Dave - a bodybuilder who turned to acting - was the ‘Green Cross Code’ man who taught children road safety. He said it was the best job he ever had.

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He travelled the country speaking to schools as well as featuring in commercials on television.

In 1984, Dave cane to Kirkcaldy where he met children at the Adam Smith Theatre.

He was given also given demonstration of moped-riding skill by disabled youngsters at the Traffic Education centre in the Mitchelston Industrial Estate.

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Mr Prowse died at the age of 85, with his British agent, Thomas Bowington, announced, stating: “May the force be with him, always.”

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