Heartbeat actor Bill Maynard has died at the age of 89, his family has confirmed.
The actor played lovable rogue Claude Jeremiah Greengrass on the popular show between 1992 and 2000.
He previously starred in the Carry On film franchise as well as having roles in notable British shows including The Sweeney.
The actor had suffered with health problems in recent years and was using a wheelchair after having several strokes.
Heartbeat actor Bill Maynard, pictured, has died aged 89, his family confirmed today
Maynard played lovable rogue Greengrass, left and right, on the show, a wily character who was always getting into trouble through dubious schemes
The star died in hospital in Leicestershire shortly after breaking his hip in a fall off his mobility scooter, his daughter-in-law said.
Jacqueline Reddin, who is also an actress, said: ‘He was larger than life and he just loved showbiz.
‘He was so proud of the fact that he had been working for 81 years.
‘He leaves a son and daughter, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.’
Maynard was married twice, first to Muriel Linnett, with whom he had his two children including musician son Martin Maynard Williams, who performed with 1980s band Ryder in the 1986 Eurovision Song Contest, finishing seventh.
After Muriel’s death in 1983, Maynard wed again six years later to Tonia Bern, widow of late land and water speed record breaker Donald Campbell.