Alastair Sim (1900-1976) was a Scottish character actor, whose comic appearance ensured him success in a string of classic British films. He was born in Edinburgh into a family of tailors, but preferred the stage. His London début came in Othello in 1930, and he appeared for a season at the Old Vic. His first film was Riverside Murder (1935). Subsequent successes included Green for Danger (1946), The Happiest Days of Your Lives (1950), and Laughter in Paradise (1951). His greatest film roles included the Inspector in An Inspector Calls, Scrooge in A Christmas Carol (1951), and the headmistress Miss Fitton in the St. Trinian's series. Prior to his death, he played the judge in the popular television series, Misleading Cases by A. P. Herbert.