A children's TV legend has sadly died at the age of just 55.

David Carling, best known for his voice acting role in programme Fireman Sam, passed away on December 10 - triggering an outpouring of grief online.

Carling was best known for voicing Station Officer Steele in the beloved children's series. Starting in 2008, he also lent his talents to other characters such as Chief Fire Officer Boyce and Trevor Evans.

Among those paying their respects was Just Voices Agency, who expressed deep sorrow over his death: "We are devastated to announce the tragic news that the wonderful David Carling passed away last Tuesday. He was a much beloved father, husband, friend, actor and voiceover artist and will be hugely missed by everyone that knew and worked with him."

A source close to the situation had previously revealed: "David died earlier this month. It's terrible news and very sad for everyone who knew him. He was lovely to work with and a 'true' professional."

As a mark of respect and remembrance, a fundraiser has been launched in Carling's honor. While it aimed for a modest £250, generous donors have already contributed over £1,300, reports .

The fundraiser page shared a heartfelt message: "We are very saddened to hear of the loss of one of Soho's great Voice over Artists, David Carling. Those who have had the pleasure to work and meet David, would all agree he would lighten up a room with his smile and wonderful sense of humour."

Tributes have poured in for the late David Carling, a voice actor renowned for his roles in the CGI series of Fireman Sam. A message shared by Soho's sound engineers read: "A fantastically versatile and talented artist his voice has been heard by so many. On behalf of Soho's sound engineers and anyone else that would like to leave a donation please feel free to here and add any messages for David.

"We wish his family all the love we can through this tough time. You give a little love an it all comes back to you, you know you're gonna be remembered for the things that you said and do. We'll miss ya love."

Fans also expressed their sorrow on Twitter/X, with one stating: "I am very saddened to hear about the death of David Carling, the voice of Station Officer Steele, Chief Fire Officer Boyce, Trevor Evans, Mike Flood and Tom Thomas in the CGI series of Fireman Sam."

Another lamented: "Devastating to hear the news of David Carling, Fireman Sam VA of Steele, Tom Thomas, Mike Flood from Series 6-16, taking over from John Sparkes in S5, has now died. Can only imagine what it's like for his family just days before Christmas. Not really a time you'd want to mourn."