Surprising winner in battle to save Neighbours

The looming demise of iconic TV soap Neighbours has had an unexpected benefit for one Aussie entertainment legend.

Neighbours star actor Alan Fletcher has expressed his sadness over the show’s looming demise.

The groundswell of support for Neighbours has resulted in the show’s theme song hitting the top of the charts in the UK.

Sung by legendary Australian entertainer Barry Crocker, the iconic song has knocked off popstars Ed Sheeran and Adele on the iTunes chart, on the back of UK fans rallying to save the long-time soap.

As well as the singles chart, it is also in the top five on the albums chart and No. 1 on Amazon downloads.

Loyal viewers of the show are desperate to find a white knight to save it from the axe after Channel 5 pulled its funding and dropped it from its UK schedule.

Neighbours favourite Alan Fletcher has spoken for the first time about his “sadness” over the show’s looming demise which emerged at the weekend.

The original Neighbours theme song, recorded by Barry Crocker in the 1980s, is climbing the UK charts.

Neighbours cast members Alan Fletcher and Jackie Woodburne. Picture: Steve Tanner

Fletcher, a 27-year veteran on Ramsay Street as Dr Karl Kennedy, said a hero was needed.

“Mentally I was prepared for the day when an announcement like this would come but it couldn’t take away the sadness I felt for all my colleagues and for our passionate and loyal audience,’’ he said.

“We are trying to remain positive. Network Ten has expressed complete support for Neighbours so if an alternative broadcaster can be found then there is hope.”

Fletcher said the show, which will continue filming until June, had been an unmatched breeding ground for Australian talent.

“Besides being a wonderful, fun and challenging job Neighbours has given me so many opportunities here and abroad that I may never have got,’’ he said.

“Plus, in 27 years I have had the opportunity to work with and befriend some of Australia’s finest talent both in front of the camera and behind the lens.

“Neighbours’ place in Australian TV history will never dim. Not only has the show provided millions of people with entertainment and a connection to each other it has also been a training ground for innumerable performers and creatives many of whom are now dominating their field internationally.

“Not to mention the many millions of export dollars the show has generated for the Australian economy.”