Actor Geoffrey Hughes, famous for his roles in Coronation Street and Keeping Up Appearances, has died aged 68.

Hughes, who was known to millions for playing binman Eddie Yeats in the soap during the 1970s and 80s, died on Friday night after a two year battle with prostate cancer.

Friends and former colleagues have paid tribute to the star describing him as a "warm, lovable actor, with great comedy timing".

Ricky Tomlinson, who acted alongside him in The Royle Family, said: "Geoff wasn't just an actor. He was my mate. I used to call him every few weeks but hadn't spoken to him in about a fortnight. It's such a loss."

William Roache, who plays Ken Barlow in Coronation Street, added: "I am so sorry to hear about Geoffrey. He was a warm, lovable actor, with great comedy timing. He will be greatly missed, one of the Street's memorable characters."

Anne Kirkbride, who plays Deirdre Barlow in the soap, paid tribute on Twitter, writing: "The rainbow must have been for him. RIP Geoff. Really sad xx". Gavin and Stacey star Mathew Horne tweeted: "Sad to hear of Geoffrey Hughes passing. Onslow was the original LAD."

Hughes first appeared in 1960s classics such as Z-Cars and The Likely Lads and was the voice of Paul McCartney in the Beatles film The Yellow Submarine.

He also played roles in Heartbeat, teen drama Skins, Doctor Who, Casualty, Boon and The Upper Hand.

In 2009 he was appointed deputy lord lieutenant for the Isle of Wight, making him "the official link between the island and royalty at formal engagements".

A Coronation Street spokeswoman said: "We are very sad to hear of the death of Geoffrey Hughes. He created a legendary and iconic character in Eddie Yeats who will always be part of Coronation Street.

"Everyone connected with the programme send our sincerest condolences to his family."

Hughes thought he had beaten prostate cancer in 2009 but discovered it had returned a year later after he collapsed at his home in the Isle of Wight.

His family said the actor passed away "peacefully in his sleep" after "a long and courageous battle" with the disease.