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Good wishes pour in after accident leaves much-loved York actor in intensive care

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Martin Barrass… condition improving

Good wishes have been pouring in after one of York’s best-loved actors was badly hurt in an accident.

Martin Barrass is in intensive care following a motorcycle crash. He was airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary after the accident, which happened near Skipton at about 3pm on Saturday (September 10).

According to BBC Radio York, where Martin works as a presenter, Martin was in a “critical condition” on Monday night (September 12). Earlier in the day he’d undergone surgery to stop internal bleeding.

Best known to York Theatre Royal audiences as one of the stars of its famous annual pantomime, Martin is hugely popular with audiences young and old.

Chief executive of the Theatre Royal Liz Wilson said:

Martin is much loved at York Theatre Royal and we are thinking of him and his family at this difficult time.

We are willing him to stay strong and hope that his condition improves following further treatment.

Martin as Mr Perks in The Railway Children. Photograph: Anthony Robling
Martin as Mr Perks in The Railway Children. Photograph: Anthony Robling

A very versatile actor, Martin was highly praised for his role as Mr Perks in the York Theatre Royal production of The Railway Children last summer.

And he received national acclaim for his role as Alfie in West End box office smash One Man Two Guvnors.

He is also cast as the father in The Gaul, a world premiere of the play by Janet Plater which opens at Hull Truck Theatre on October 6.

Many friends and admirers of the actor have left their best wishes on his Facebook page. They included one of his fellow panto stars AJ Powell, who sent all his love and prayers to Martin’s family.

These were some of the wishes left on Facebook, and on Twitter:

Hang in there dear Martin. Sending prayers from California. God bless you.

– Marina Tidwell

Woke up to your shocking news Martin Barrass wishing you a speedy recovery. Your public and Pantomime friends need you. Back to fighting fit.

– Jon Noble

Panto's famous four: Martin Barrass, David Leonard, Suzy Cooper and Berwick Kaler.
Panto’s famous four: Martin Barrass, David Leonard, Suzy Cooper and Berwick Kaler.
To the most wonderful man. We’re all rooting for you! Lots and lots of love xxxxxx

– Megan Pitt

Huge love to you! Your abundance of strength and positivity will help in a speedy recovery. Much love xxx

– Jack Hardwick

Wishing you everything good and sending positive thoughts to you Martin. Xxxx

– Elaine Goddard

Thinking about you, Martin. Sending my v best wishes and positive thoughts.

– Alex B Cann