Ray Donn entered the hospitality industry in 1961, initiating a career in property management that spanned thirty-six years. Born in Poplar, East London, on 7 August 1937, he navigated the British commercial landscape by operating various venues before transitioning into a second, distinct professional phase as a supporting artist in film and television productions.
Hospitality and Agency Management
Donn spent over three decades managing a variety of establishments, starting with the Pegasus from 1961 to 1968. He later operated the Goat between 1968 and 1970, the Valley Club from 1970 to 1984, and the Syndale Park Motel from 1984 until 1997. Alongside these physical sites, he directed Ray Donn (Leisure) Ltd. from 1970 to 1985. This agency facilitated entertainment bookings for theatre and television clients, managing performers such as Bobby Davro and Jim Bowen. Additionally, he produced and directed the Publand Variety Show at major London venues, culminating in performances at the London Palladium, with profits directed to the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund.
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His involvement with the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund lasted 35 years, from 1974 to 2009. Serving as Honorable Treasurer for 13 of those years, between 1995 and 2008, he attended functions where he was presented to the Queen, the Queen Mother, and Prince Charles. The fund maintains Brinsworth House for retired entertainment professionals. Donn also held roles in social and professional fraternities, including serving as a founder member and the first secretary of the Comedians' Golfing Society from 1978 to 1984. He became the Honorary Treasurer of the Vaudeville Golfing Society in 1997 and was initiated into Chelsea Lodge No. 3098 in September 1997, later serving as its 100th Master in 2004.
Transition to Screen Performance
Following his retirement from business in 1997, Donn began working as a supporting artist. His filmography includes appearances in various television productions and films, beginning with Notting Hill. He maintains an association with the Concert Artistes Association, having been named an honorary member in 2011.
Fast facts
- Born: 7 August 1937, Poplar, London
- Primary Occupations: Entrepreneur, businessperson, actor
- Hospitality Management: 1961–1997
- Agency Operation: Ray Donn (Leisure) Ltd., 1970–1985
- Benevolent Fund Treasurer: 1995–2008
- Chelsea Lodge Master: 2004
- Noted Stunt Double Work: David Suchet
Questions readers ask
What was the duration of his career in the entertainment agency business?
He directed Ray Donn (Leisure) Ltd. from 1970 to 1985.
Which charity did Donn serve for over three decades?
He served on the management committee of the Entertainment Artistes' Benevolent Fund from 1974 to 2009.
