Actor started as a stand-up in the 1960s

 Comedian Bobby Knutt, who starred as Eddie Dawson  in Benidorm, has died unexpectedly at the age of 71.

The comedy’s creator Derren Litten broke the news on Twitter, tweeting: ‘Very sad Benidorm news guys. The wonderful Bobby Knutt has passed away suddenly aged 71. Sending our Beni love to his family.’

His agent, Tim Scott, said the star died this morning while on holiday in the South of France.

The entertainer also played Albert Dingle on ITV soap Emmerdale and appeared in Coronation Street as garage boss Ron Sykes. His other credits include in Heartbeat, Our Friends In the North and Last Of The Summer Wine, and he was a star of pantomime in his native Sheffield, appearing in 14 productions.

Benidorm co-stars paid tribute on Twitter today. Jake Canuso said: 'Sad to hear of the sudden passing of Bobby Knutt. He will be dearly missed by his @BenidormTVshow family. RIP  lovely man.'

And Tony Maudsley said: 'Take a bow Grandad Dawson. Your Benidorm family will miss you. RIP Bobby Knutt'

Born Robert Wass, Knuttbecame a pro comedian in 1965 at the age of 20 and made stand-up appearances in  The Comedians and The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club. 

In 1977, he was given the lead role in the BBC's The Price of Coal directed by Ken Loach, allowing him to move beyond comedy. 

Knutt was married to Donna Hartley, hailed the 'golden girl' of British athletics at the 1980 Olympics, before she died suddenly in June 2013, aged 58.

Published: 25 Sep 2017