Arthur Fowler

Name: Arthur Fowler
First Appeared: 19th February 1985
Last Appeared: 11th February 2025
Played by: Bill Treacher

Arthur Fowler’s story in Albert Square is one of love, hardship, and the occasional gardening triumph. Born in August 1943, Arthur grew up in Walford, where he met the love of his life, Pauline Beale, in school. They started dating in 1964, and Arthur proposed to Pauline in a sweet moment when she was too ill to be her sister’s bridesmaid. The couple married on 22nd September 1965 and lived at 45 Albert Square with their three children: Mark, Michelle, and Martin. Pauline’s mother, Lou Beale, also lived with them until her death in 1988.

Arthur worked as a skilled labourer in a local toy factory for 15 years until he was made redundant in 1984. Struggling with unemployment, Arthur’s main solace was his allotment, where he could escape the nagging of his wife and mother-in-law. Over the years, Arthur took on various odd jobs, including carpentry, delivery, and road sweeping. In 1986, desperate to give his daughter Michelle a wedding to be proud of, Arthur took money from the Christmas Club savings scheme he managed. His plan backfired spectacularly, leading to a nervous breakdown and a 28-day prison sentence.

Despite his ups and downs, Arthur found friends in new neighbours Phil and Grant Mitchell in 1990, who often helped him out of trouble. By 1995, Arthur was elected secretary of the allotment committee and began raising funds for an eco-friendly garden. Unfortunately, an old friend, Willy Roper, conned Arthur into signing over the fund money, leading to another police investigation. Arthur was arrested again in December 1995, and the strain led to another mental breakdown. His family’s support helped clear his name, but a prison riot left Arthur with a fatal injury.

Arthur was released from prison but never fully recovered. A few days later, while tending to his beloved allotment, he suffered a brain haemorrhage and passed away in May 1996. Arthur’s life was a rollercoaster of joy, sorrow, and resilience, leaving a lasting legacy in Walford. Despite his many troubles, he remained a beloved character, known for his gardening passion and enduring love for his family.