[Ammi]

Hi-de-Hi! actor Paul Shane has died at the age of 72 following a short illness, says his agent.

The star of the 80s BBC sitcom was surrounded by friends and family in a hospice in his home town of Rotherham, South Yorkshire.

Paul Shane played holiday camp host Ted Bovis in Hi-de-Hi!, but also starred in You Rang M'Lord and Oh, Dr Beeching!

His role in the fictional Maplin's holiday camp saw him star alongside Su Pollard and Ruth Madoc.

The show, set in 1959, was based on the experiences of the show's co-creator, Jimmy Perry, who worked in Butlins after the war.

It ran for eight series between 1980 and 1988.

Linda Kremer, the actor's agent for 15 years, said: "Paul Shane was a consummate professional, a true gentleman, a good friend, and a joy to work with.

"He didn't suffer fools, always maintained his sense of humour, never stinted on the time he gave to his fans.

"He lightened my life and I'll miss him enormously."

Mr Shane was a coal miner before starting out as a cabaret act touring working men's clubs in the 1960s