'A true gent and a very funny man'

Geordie comedian Brendan Healy has died at the age of 59.

The entertainer, who was a regular in the panto at Newcastle's Tyne Theatre, had been suffering from cancer for the past five years.

He died on Thursday night with his family at his side, a statement posted on his official Facebook page said.

'His strength, dignity and humour throughout his illness is an inspiration to all his friends and family,' it added. 'A much loved husband, father, brother, son, uncle and friend to many, he will be sorely missed.'

In the 1970s, Healy fronted the children’s TV show Razzmatazz and went on to make appearances in Spender, Auf Wiedersehen, Pet and Boon.

He also regularly took part in in the annual Sunday For Sammy fundraisers to benefit young talent in the North East. Chris Ramsey, who also appeared in the shows, tweeted this afternoon: 'Gutted to hear about Brendan Healy. A proper North East comedy legend and a lovely, lovely man.'

Fellow comic Phil Walker added:'Very sad loss of a true original comic talent. RIP', and Jason Cook said: 'A true gent and a very funny man. Sail on, fella.'

And Newcastle football icon Alan Shearer tweeted: 'Not only were you hilariously funny, more importantly you were an absolute gentleman. RIP Brendan Healy.'

Here he is in action

Published: 19 Feb 2016