Barry Chuckle has died, aged 73

The veteran entertainer Barry Chuckle, one half of the comedy duo the Chuckle Brothers, has died aged 73, his manager has said.

“It is with great sadness that the family announce that Barry passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his wife Ann and all his family,” said Phil Dale.

He added of the comedian, whose real name was Barry Elliott: “The family would like to express their thanks to the many people who have been fans of the Chuckle Brothers and they know that they will share in part the great, great loss they feel.”

His brother and comedy partner, Paul Elliott, said: “I’ve not just lost my brother, I’ve lost my theatrical partner of many, many years and my very best friend.”