Bobby Knutt has died at the age of 71.

The actor - who was known for his roles in 'Emmerdale' and 'Benidorm' - passed away suddenly on Monday (25.09.17) morning whilst on holiday in the South of France, his agent has confirmed.

And since the news of his passing, a number of celebrities have paid tribute to the star, with 'Benidorm' writer Derren Litten calling the news "very sad".

He said: "Very sad Benidorm news guys. The wonderful Bobby Knutt has passed away suddenly aged 71. Sending our Beni love to his family."

The Twitter account for the ITV sitcom - in which Bobby had played Eddie 'Grandad' Dawson since 2016 - wrote: "Benidorm star and Sheffield legend Bobby Knutt passes away aged 71. Good night Knutty, your Benidorm family loves you. X (sic)"

Whilst actor Tony Maudsley - who stars in the comedy as Kenneth - tweeted: "Take a bow Grandad Dawson. Your Benidorm family will miss you. RIP Bobby Knutt x (sic)"

Bobby started his career as a comedian on Granada Television's 'The Comedians' and 'The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club', before landing the lead role in Ken Loach's BBC drama 'The Price of Coal' in 1977.

Since then, Bobby has starred in shows such as 'Last of the Summer Wine', 'Heartbeat', 'All Creatures Great and Small', 'Our Friends in the North', and 'Hetty Wainthropp Investigates'.

Bobby was also known for his role as Albert Dingle in ITV soap 'Emmerdale', a role which he held from 1995 to 1997 before making a brief reappearance in 2004.

He also portrayed garage owner Ron Sykes in 'Coronation Street', also broadcast on ITV, from 1980 to 1983.

Bobby was married to British athlete Donna Hartley from 1986 until her death in 2013.