Eric Bamford

Eric (played by David Ryall) is Phoebe's father and a staunch patriot of his King and country. He has fought in World War I and went "over the top" in the notorious Battle of the Somme. At first, Eric is certain Gary is a German spy, but withdraws the accusation when he is knocked out by his till tray and Gary revives him with the kiss of life. For a while, Gary and Eric are on good terms, but Eric never appears to lose his underlying suspicion of Gary and is quick to remind Phoebe that she is still married to a serving British soldier whenever Gary visits. When Eric is eventually killed in a bombing, Gary is able to pursue his courtship of Phoebe with far less impediment than previously.