His film career began in 1936 in Sensation, but was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the Royal Armoured Corps.

He appeared in scenes when Dodger steals a gentleman's wallet outside the bookshop and also when Oliver is in court charged with the robbery.

In 1967, Hayter appeared in The Avengers episode "A Funny Thing Happened On The Way to the Station" as the ticket master.

He also appeared as Dickson McCunn in the BBC serial Huntingtower, based on the book by John Buchan.

; the cake company paid him a significant bonus to withdraw from the series, as they felt his reputation lent an air of dignity to their advertisements.