Guess the character

[Nair Snehalatha]

I am not British-- but my friends are--- They saved me out of a dangerous situation.--- we had a lovely time--- going for picnics on the river, and playing exciting games. Two people were after me because I'm very rich--- one of them was my relative.

[snugglepot]

Are you Kit Anthony Armstrong from "The Boy Next Door"?

[Nair Snehalatha]

YES, I am indeed--- over to you.

[snugglepot]

Thank you.

I am a character who was talked about but not seen for over half of a book series.
I finally appeared at the end of one of the books.
I then made brief appearances in later books.
Even though I was given a profession in the very first book, I am never seen actually participating in this profession.
Who am I?

[Nair Snehalatha]

Who is this elusive person?-- Is it -- can it be Joanna the cook in Famous Five books? If not a clue would be better.

[Anita Bensoussane]

Are you Barnabas Martin?

[snugglepot]

Yes, Anita, I am Barnabas Martin, Barney's father.

Your turn.

[Anita Bensoussane]

Thanks, Snugglepot.

I was pursuing a peaceful interest of mine when I found myself in a hole. It was most surreal and I wondered if I was going mad!

[Courtenay]

Are you Horace "Tripalong" Tipperlong from The Sea of Adventure?

[Anita Bensoussane]

That was quick! Yes, I was tripped up and fell headlong into a hole.

Your turn, Courtenay!

[Courtenay]

Thanks, Anita. I just happened upon your riddle and didn't realise it had only just been posted when I answered!

Next...

I am an animal character in a Blyton series.
I was once considered too wild for anyone to tame, until one young human proved my equal.
My name is famous beyond Blytonian circles!

Who am I?

[Nair Snehalatha]

Am I Queenie in -- Hurrah for the Circus--- Jimmy proved to be my equal.

[Courtenay]

No, not Queenie, Snehalatha.

[Nair Snehalatha]

Is it Duke --- the rather fierce dog in ''The children at Green Meadows''? That young boy---I forget his name --- tamed him -- in fact he saved him from being shot.

[Courtenay]

No, not Duke either.