British TV icon George Cole passes away aged 90

Best known for his role in ITV series 'Minder,' George Cole has died at Royal Berkshire hospital following a short illness. He was 90.

Tabloid media revealed that the actor whose career spanned for seven decades was surrounded by his family at the time of his death, reported the Guardian.

Giving tribute to his co-star Dennis Waterman said that he is very sad after hearing the news, Cole's family is devastated and he is absolutely certain that anybody who ever knew him will feel the same.

He added that he is grateful to have been a friend like Cole as he was an amazing man, a wonderful actor and besotted with his family.

Mourning the death of the actor, Roger Moore tweeted, "How sad to hear George Cole has gone to that great cutting room in the sky. A lovely actor. A gentleman."

Meanwhile, Mark Gatiss tweeted, "A fond farewell to the marvellous George Cole. Immaculate as the young Scrooge, joyous as Flash Harry, unforgettable as Arthur Daley. RIP"

The father-of-two, who became a household name playing cockney wide boys from the loudly dressed Flash Harry in the early St Trinian's films to the crooked car dealer Daley in 'Minder,' was also known for his roles in 'Cleopatra,' 'Scrooge,' 'The Green Man' and 'Fright.