Entertainer Stan Stennett dies

The Welsh entertainer Stan Stennett has died at the age of 88. He passed away in hospital after a short illness. Stan, who enjoyed a long career on the stage and television, counted entertainment legends like Eric Morecambe and Ken Dodd as friends. Sarah Powell reports.

Performer Johnny Tudor paid tribute to his friend Stan Stennett saying 'showbusiness was his life.' Mr Tudor told ITV News that he spoke to Mr Stennett shortly before he died and he always made him laugh.

Stan Stennett's son, Ceri - who appeared with him in pantomimes - described his father as 'a special part of peoples' lives.'

Speaking about his father's time performing with the likes of Morecambe and Wise, Mr Stennett said: "They had a huge amount of fun as young men coming into the industry. It's nice to think he's with them now."

Veteran entertainer Stan Stennett has died at the age of 88. The comedian suffered a stroke three weeks ago and died at the University of Wales Hospital in Cardiff last night. Mr Stennett was still performing just two weeks before the stroke, his son Ceri told ITV News.

His career spanned more than 50 years and he performed alongside household names including Morecambe and Wise, Ken Dodd and Ronnie Corbett. In the 1980s, he joined the cast of 'Crossroads,' playing Sid Hooper for seven years.

Mr Stennett was awarded the MBE in 1979 for services to theatre and charity.