Tony Scannell has died aged 74.
The actor – who was best known for playing DS Ted Roach in ITV’s ‘The Bill’ – recently passed away, with the sad news being announced via a tribute on Facebook.
A fan of the late star – who also appeared in ‘Flash Gordon’ and ‘Waking the Dead’ – wrote: "Damn, damn, damn! I’ve just learned from Mark Wingett of the passing of a wonderful actor and dear colleague of his.
"Tony Scannell played a DS Ted Roach on The Bill for Nine years from 84-93. Any Episode that had him in it would have me fixated on the TV… I had a very bad case of a young girl crush on Ted/Tony. He was a bit of alright in my books. (despite the fact he was literally three months younger than my Dad!)
"When Tony retired Ted in 1993 I was gutted! I developed a unreasoning dislike of the new DS John Bolton (Russell Boulter) and ground my teeth every time the ‘holier than thou’ Inspect Andrew Monroe (Colin Tarrant) who caused Ted to quit, came on the screen. It took me more years than I care to admit (And meeting Russell, Mark and Hew Higginson) to rid myself of those daft feelings.
"Ted was such a dynamic character, and although I never did get to meet him, I’m sure Tony was just as amazing… and his memory will be cherished by his loved ones and friends all.
"Vale Mr Scannell! And thank you! (sic)"
The cause of death and the date of Scannell’s passing have not yet been revealed.
The actor is survived by his partner Agnes Lillis.