A hotel boss who shot to fame after he featured in a fly-on-the-wall documentary series has sadly died at the age of 67.
Brian Birchall was deputy manager at Liverpool's Britannia Adelphi when TV cameras moved in for the 1997 series Hotel.
His exasperated outburst, "Just cook will yer", when challenged by head chef David Smith made him an overnight star.
He retired as general manager in 2009, after spending 18 years at the famous hotel and nearly 40 in the hospitality industry as a whole.
Today his family announced that Brian had passed away peacefully at home on May 13.
The obituary notice read: "Brian was a much loved partner to Alan, a dearly loved brother, uncle and cousin.
"Described by so many as a popular and charismatic gentleman, with a fabulous sense of humour and a caring nature.
"He will be truly missed by all his family and many friends."
At the time of his retirement, Brian said he was still asked to sign his autograph and pose for pictures, more than a decade after the series was broadcast.
Speaking in 2009, he said: "I've had a fabulous time here. I'm really passionate about it.
"You couldn't afford to build a hotel like this now. You get used to it when you work here, but when people come in for the first time and see the Grand Lounge, they just say 'wow'."
Brian joined the Adelphi in 1991 as head waiter but by 1997, when Hotel was filmed, he was deputy manager.
Hotel's stars were cheerful Brian and no-nonsense manager Eileen Downey.
After the show, Brian won parts in two Liverpool pantomimes and his catchphrase even spawned a tribute single from local band Alternative Radio.
He said: "Every now and again, I still get followed round Asda."
A celebration of Brian's remarkable life is to take place at Landican Crematorium, Birkenhead, at 3pm on Tuesday, June 1.
Donations if desired should be made to Wirral Hospice St Johns c/o Kevin Lomax Funerals Ltd.
