Laurie Dee. who played Hammer in Sea Urchins, was born in Christchurch and educated at St Andrew's College. After a four-year apprenticeship with' a Christchurch engineering firm he qualified with a Trade Certificate in engineering.
He was well-known in musical circles as a singer and entertainer, appearing as a guest on television's "Happen Inn" and on a "heavy rock" television series called "Free Ride."
In 1974 Laurie Dee made his acting debut in a one-off crime drama called "Taggart." playing opposite Ian Mune,
His later roles include: