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British filmmaker and actor Lionel Jeffries, who directed The Railway Children, has died at the age of 83.

Jeffries, who also played Grandpa Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, passed away earlier in the week at a nursing home in Poole, Dorset.

Before his career in filmmaking, Jeffries served in World War II and was awarded the Burma Star in recognition of his bravery.

After training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, he started an acting career on the stage before moving into films.

Jeffries' acting heyday came in the 1960s when he had starring roles in Camelot, Two-Way Stretch and The Trials of Oscar Wilde.

He moved into writing and directing in the 1970s, including helming duties on children's films The Amazing Mr Blunden and The Railway Children.

Jenny Agutter, who starred in the 1970s adaptation of E. Nesbitt's classic book, told The Times: "He was an extraordinary character, larger than life, wonderfully funny - just totally dear to work with."

Jeffries is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Eileen, and their three children.

 

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