Cyril Shaps(1923-2003)

The son of a tailor, Cyril studied at the London School of Broadcasting aged 12 years. His first professional appearance, at 12, came on Radio Lyons and Radio Luxembourg in such commercials as O.K. Sauce and Quaker Oats. After demob from the Army, he enrolled at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art which was followed by Guildford rep and the West End. He worked in Hollywood for two years with Radio Netherland as English announcer,scriptwriter and producer of programmes. Then came BBC Radio Drama Rep. for two years (1952 - 54). Cyril, whose forebearers were Polish, was the father of three children, Michael, Simon and Sarah.