George Cole, the actor best known for his role as Arthur Daley in the television series Minder, has died aged 90.

Agent Derek Webster said Cole passed away at the Royal Berkshire hospital after a short illness, surrounded by his family.

Mr Webster, who represents Cole's Minder co-star Dennis Waterman, said: "It is with deep regret that I have to announce the sad death of one of our most loved and respected actors.

"George Cole passed away yesterday at the Royal Berkshire Hospital after a short illness. His wife Penny and his son Toby were with him at his bedside."

Cole was adopted when he was ten days old and grew up in south London. At 14, he was taken on by comedy star Alastair Sim and his wife Naomi and went on to star alongside him in a number of productions.