Sir Ken Dodd dies: Comedy world pays tribute to stand-up legend after death aged 90

Comedy stars today paid tribute to Sir Ken Dodd after he died aged 90.

The legend, famous for his stand-up shows, tickling sticks and Diddy Men, died on Sunday just two days after marring his partner of 40 years Anne Jones.

He died in the home where he was born in Knotty Ash, Liverpool, with his wife by his bedside.

Comedy stars shared an outpouring of grief following the news of this death.

Actor John Challis, who played Boycie in comedy television series Only Fools and Horses, tweeted: "So sorry to hear we have lost Ken Dodd.I met him once and I've never forgotten it.Gawd bless 'im."

Fellow Liverpudlian Claire Sweeney described Sir Ken as a "legend and an inspiration".

The television personality shared some photos of the comedian's 90th birthday party on Twitter, saying: "RIP Sir Ken Dodd. A legend and an inspiration.

"I have a lot to thank You for. I Was thrilled you had the best birthday party in Liverpool before you left us. Your city, friends,Family and Show business will miss you terribly."

Dara O Briain said he was "so happy" he had had the chance to meet Sir Ken.

The Irish comedian, known for hosting panel shows such as Mock the Week, said on Twitter: "Ah, Ken Dodd has died. So happy I got to meet him once, and more importantly, saw him do one of his incredible 5 hour shows.

"He was an education to watch and, afterwards, at 1.30 am, he had beers with me in the dressing room and talked showbiz. A privilege, and a loss. RIP."

Comedian Gary Delaney made reference to Sir Ken's long stand-up shows as he paid tribute on Twitter.

He wrote: "RIP Sir Ken Dodd. One of the all time greats. The funeral will be held on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and most of Saturday."

Publicist Robert Holmes said on Monday: "To my mind, he was one of the last music hall greats. There is no-one else that comes close.

"He passed away in the home that he was born in over 90 years ago. He's never lived anywhere else. It's absolutely amazing.

"With Ken gone, the lights have been turned out in the world of variety.

"He was a comedy legend and a genius."

He said of his marriage: "He asked Anne if she wanted to marry. They got the registrar and were married in the house on Friday.

"He died two days later on Mother's Day. Anne is obviously very upset. They had been together for 40 years.

"It's a love story to beat them all."

Sir Ken, known for his unruly hair and teeth, performed his very last show just months ago, at The Auditorium in the Liverpool Echo Arena, in his native city, on December 28.

But all 2018 dates had to be cancelled due to his illness and subsequent hospital stay.

Brandishing a tickling stick and greeted by his Diddy Men, the star had vowed to carry on with his tattyfilarious comedy when he left hospital last month.

"I'm going to teach my legs how to work again, they've forgotten you know, and once I've recovered myself I'll get back to doing the job, which is the only job I've ever had," he said at the time.

"While I was in here, I wrote some new jokes, so it should be all right."