The Royle Family's Peter Martin dies aged 82

The Royle Family's Peter Martin has died.

The actor, who starred as Joe Carroll in the hit TV series, passed away at the age of 82 but the cause of death has not been announced.

The sad news was shared by a friend who posted on Facebook: "My friend, drinking partner, fishing buddy past away on Wednesday morning, very sad, many of you will know him from TV, RIP Peter Martin, we had some great laughs."

Martin's Royle Family co-star Ricky Tomlinson was among those to pay tribute, saying he was "a brilliant actor".

Read more: Ralf Little on the instant success of The Royle Family

Tomlinson's message was shared on Twitter by comic John Martin, who wrote: "Ricky Tomlinson (who doesn’t do social media) has asked me to pay tribute to Peter Martin who sadly has passed away.

"Ricky said he was a absolute joy to work with and a brilliant actor.

"He will be sadly missed by Ricky. R.I.P."

Film company Xanadu tweeted: "We're saddened to hear we have lost the lovely Peter Martin.

"Known for many TV & film acting roles, he directed our very first play when we began as a theatre company in 2008.

"Peter cared deeply about that show & gave us great support & advice.

"A pleasure to work with him. RIP."

Martin was best known for playing the Royles' neighbour Joe in The Royle Family.

He also starred as Len Reynolds in ITV soap Emmerdale from 2001 to 2007.

His film credits include Brassed Off, Funny Bones and Walk Like A Panther.

The Royle Family ran for three series from 1998 to 2000 and there were also several specials.

Read more: Royle Family' stars pay tribute to Caroline Aherne on anniversary of her death

Its star Caroline Aherne died in 2016 after battling cancer.

Watch: Ralf Little on the instant success of The Royle Family