Lord of the Rings star Sir Ian Holm dies aged 88

The Oscar nominated actor and star of Lord of the Rings Sir Ian Holm has died aged 88.

Sir Ian, who also starred in the Chariots of Fire film, had been battling Parkinson disease, his agent said: "It is with great sadness that the actor Sir Ian Holm CBE passed away this morning at the age of 88

"He died peacefully in hospital, with his family and carer.

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"Charming, kind and ferociously talented, we will miss him hugely."

Actor Sir Ian Holm, best known for roles in Chariots Of Fire and The Lord Of The Rings, has died at the age of 88, his agent has said. (PA Wire/PA Images)

Sir Ian was also an accomplished member of the Royal Shakespeare Company, where he made his name as an actor.

His film credits include The Madness of King George, Alien, with his most high-profile role arguably as Bilbo Baggins in the Lord of the Ring film series.

For his role in Chariots of Fire, Sir Ian received a Bata award and an Oscar nomination as best supporting actor, but missed out to John Gielgud.

He was awarded a knighthood in the 1998 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to drama.