The Likely Lads actor Rodney Bewes dies aged 79

British actor Rodney Bewes, best known for his role in 1960s sitcom The Likely Lads, has died at the age of 79.

The much-loved star, who played Bob Ferris in the iconic BBC series, passed away on Tuesday morning, his agent has confirmed.

“It is with great sadness that we confirm that our dear client, the much loved actor Rodney Bewes, passed away this morning,” his agent said in a statement on Twitter

"He had a funny anecdote for every occasion. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time. We will miss him terribly."

Bewes’ career spanned five decades, with his final television appearance in an episode of ITV’s Heartbeat in 2009.

His breakthrough role came in 1964 when he landed the role in The Likely Lads, which ran from 1964-66, and later Whatever Happened to the Likely Lads in 1976.

In between the two, Bewes appeared in films including Man in a Suitcase, Father, Dear Father and his own sitcom, Dear Mother… Love Albert.

He also had TV roles in Doctor Who in 1984 and Spender in 1993, as well as film roles in 1973’s The Three Musketeers and The Wildcats of St Tinian’s in 1980.

Bewes’ stage work included roles in one-man productions Three Men in a Boat and Diary of a Nobody.

When asked what role he would be remembered for, he said: “Actually it is the only thing I am remembered for. But at least I’m remembered for something.”