Ted Bovis, the ultimate club comic

Paul Shane, who epitomised the holiday-camp comic as Hi-de-Hi!’s Ted Bovis, has died at the age of 72.

The sitcom actor died surrounded by family at a hospice in Rotherham after a short illness, his actor said.

Shane also appeared in You Rang, M'Lord, alongside some fellow Hi-de-Hi! alumni.

Ricky Gervais was among those paying tribute on Twitter, calling him ‘an old school Britcom hero’.

Shane began his working life as a miner but turned to the entertainment industry following an accident. As a singer, he had first-hand experience of the Yorkshire club circuit, which was invaluable when he was offered the role in Hi-de-Hi! in 1980. The series would run for eight years.

Linda Kramer, his agent for 15 years, said: ‘Paul Shane was a consummate professional, a true gentleman, a good friend, and a joy to work with.

‘He didn't suffer fools, always maintained his sense of humour, never stinted on the time he gave to his fans. He lightened my life and I'll miss him enormously.’

Published: 16 May 2013