Exclusive: 'Neighbours' star Alan Fletcher thanks 'warm, dedicated' UK fans

Neighbours star Alan Fletcher has revealed that he is "overwhelmed" by the ongoing support of the soap's British fanbase.

Neighbours last week reached its 25th year of airing in the UK as it made its debut on BBC One on October 27, 1986. The Australian show moved over to Channel 5 in February 2008.

Fletcher, better known as Ramsay Street's Karl Kennedy, has now spoken exclusively to Digital Spy to thank British fans of the long-running programme.

"My interaction with UK fans of Neighbours have been some of the happiest of my life," he explained.

"Who wouldn't enjoy travelling the length and breadth of the UK meeting thousands of people who want nothing more than a photo, autograph and the chance to tell you how much they love the show and Dr K? I have a great job!"

Fletcher tours the UK with his indie band The Waiting Room each year. The group also often perform in front of British backpackers in Melbourne.

He continued: "Without the UK fans, I doubt Neighbours would have lasted 25 years. You have always shown me and my band such warmth and dedication I am overwhelmed, and a simple thank you seems inadequate. Please keep watching!"

Meanwhile, asked to name the secret of Neighbours' success, he replied: "I believe Neighbours has been so successful in the UK and around the world because the writers and producers have come up with the perfect formula, which is just the right balance of comedy and drama."

Neighbours airs weekdays at 1.45pm and 5.30pm on Channel 5 in the UK, and weekdays at 6.30pm on Eleven in Australia.

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