Roy Barraclough, MBE (12 July 1935 – 1 June 2017), was an English comic actor whose television and stage work made him a familiar face across the north of England and beyond. He gained widespread recognition for playing Alec Gilroy in the long-running British TV soap Coronation Street, and for his comedy double-act Cissie and Ada performed with Les Dawson.
Career highlights
Barraclough's career spanned theatre, television and radio. While Alec Gilroy on Coronation Street brought him mainstream fame, his stage appearances earned him respect in regional theatre circles. The Cissie and Ada routine—an exaggerated, affectionate take on northern women—showcased his talent for character comedy and partnership work.
Honours and awards
In the 2006 New Year Honours he was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in recognition of his contributions to drama and his charitable activities in the North West of England. Barraclough's work was also honoured with several theatre and broadcasting prizes during his career.
- Three Manchester Evening News Theatre Awards, including the Reader's Award
- A Liverpool Echo Theatre Award
- A Royal Television Society Award
Death
Barraclough died aged 81 at the Willow Wood Hospice in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, on 1 June 2017, following a short illness. Colleagues and audiences remembered him for his comic timing, warm stage presence and his contribution to regional theatre and television.