To The Manor Born actor Peter Bowles dies aged 85 after cancer battle

Peter Bowles has died aged 85.

The 'To The Manor Born' actor - best known for his role as self-made businessman Richard DeVere in the classic BBC sitcom opposite Dame Penelope Keith (Audrey fforbes-Hamilton) - has passed away, as confirmed by his agent.

In a statement, Bowles agent revealed he had "sadly passed away from cancer".

He is survived by his wife Susan Bennett, whom he had been married to for over 60 years, and their three children Guy, Adam and Sasha.

His agent referenced the actor's early performances at the Old Vic Theatre in 1956, and Bowles went on to star in 45 theatrical productions, with his stage career ending aged 81 in 'The Exorcist' at the Phoenix Theatre.

He continued to work on stage and screen, become a household name in the role of DeVere.

He appeared on 'To The Manor Born' from 1979 to 1981, while he and Keith reprised their roles for a 2007 special.

He also appeared in other TV series like 'The Avengers', 'The Saint', 'Only When I Laugh' and 'Perfect Scoundrels'.

He also appeared on the big screen in the likes of 'Eyewitness', 'The Steal', 'Colour Me Kubrick' and 'The Bank Job', while in 2016 he starred in BBC Two series 'Murder', and he recently played the Duke of Wellington alongside Jenna Coleman in 'Victoria'.

Tributes are pouring in for the late actor, with former 'Good Morning Britain' star Piers Morgan among those paying their respects.

He tweeted: "RIP Peter Bowles, 85. Wonderful actor who exuded roguish British charm.

"Loved him in To The Manor Born, Lytton's Diary The Boulder. Sad news. (sic)"

A fan wrote: "R.I.P. PETER BOWLES... To the Manor born was one of me favourite programmes... Loved his smile and genuine nice guy."

Another added: "RIP to the incomparable Peter Bowles. For many of us, he defined suave and sophistication. Although that actually slightly undersells his gifts as an actor, which were considerable."