LIFE OF PIKE

Death of hilarious Dad's Army actor is end of an era

- MATT ROPER

He began as the "stupid boy" who was the butt of some of TV's most famous one-liners, but Ian Lavender will be remembered for being brilliantly gifted.

Ian, who has died aged 77, was the last man standing of the iconic Dad's Army cast. A spokesman for the sitcom said it is "the end of an era".

The statement added: "His wonderful performance as Private Frank Pike will live on for decades." Ian also played Derek Harkinson in EastEnders. Show bosses said colleagues "remember him fondly for his warmth, kindness and compassion".

'Allo! 'Allo! star Vicki Michelle said: "So sad to hear of [his] passing. A wonderful actor and gorgeous man.

Recalling being Ian's understudy during the Dad's Army stage show, Hi-de-Hi! star Jeffrey Holland said: "Went on for him at one performance and didn't get a laugh, proving there was only one Private Pike.

Jon Petrie, the BBC's director of comedy, said: "Ian was a much-loved actor... In his role of Private Pike he delivered some of the most iconic moments in British comedy.