Jason Manford has expressed his sadness in a tribute to comedian Sean Lock.
Lock, known for his roles on panel shows 8 Out Of 10 Cats and 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown, died aged 58 from cancer.
His agent, Off The Kerb Production, confirmed the news on Wednesday morning.
They said he died at home, surrounded by his family before describing him as "one of Britain’s finest comedians."
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Tributes have been pouring in for Lock from fellow comedians, co-stars and fans.
Among those to share a message in memory of the 15 Storeys Highs star was Jason Manford.
The Salford comic shared an image of himself with Lock, as well as a screenshot of a text he’d sent him a couple of weeks ago.
"I’m absolutely gutted about this," Jason shared alongside the post. "So heartbroken for his wife and children.
"One of the funniest men I’ve ever worked with and I used to adore occasionally making him laugh on my first proper telly job, 8 Out of 10 Cats."
He went on: " I texted him couple of weeks ago and I’m now so glad I did. If you’ve a friend who’ve you not spoken to for a while, drop them a message and check in.
"It could be the last time. RIP Sean."
His message to Lock read: "Hi Sean, hope you and your family are doing okay. Did Countdown last week and missed having you there.
"I often think back to my days on Cats with you & how much I appreciated working with you, the buzz I’d get on the rare occasion something I said would make you laugh!"
Jason's post was flooded with messages from fans sharing their own tributes to the late comedian.
"I’m so sorry Jason, this is awful news. Loved the 8 out of 10 cat days with you both and where I first became a supporter of you, as you know. Thinking of his family. Amazingly funny man and will be surely missed," one said.
Another commented: "Sad this is. Heartbreaking to read. Love to his family /friends. Everyone really who worked with him. At rest Sean."
"He was a brilliant comedian. So sad he's gone," a third added.
A statement from his agent Off The Kerb Productions to the PA news agency said: "It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of Sean Lock.
"He died at home from cancer, surrounded by his family. Sean was one of Britain’s finest comedians, his boundless creativity, lightning wit and the absurdist brilliance of his work, marked him out as a unique voice in British comedy.
"Sean was also a cherished husband and father to three children.
"Sean will be sorely missed by all that knew him. We kindly request that the privacy of his family and children is respected at this difficult time."
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