Lovely guy who actually made some records (not generally remembered) with my dear friend and arranger Johnny Arthey.
Aged only 79; famous for The Wicker Man, The Equaliser and many other roles.

Just heard the news. The Wicker Man is what I remember him most for. Stunning film. The climax is brilliantly done. Christopher Lee to this day still says it's the best production he's ever been involved with.

great actor

Was just thinking about him yesterday. He gave a unique and memorable performance as the Ghost of Chistmas Present in A Christmas Carol, and was a more than capable Sherlock Holmes. Loved him as Callan and The Equalizer. He also added a certain something to the movie Champions. I never got round to seeing him in the new series of The Professionals where he played Gordon Jacksons part.

I wasn't so keen on The Wicker Man but that wasn't his fault. The story had too many holes and I couldn't suspend my disbelief.

He'll be greatly missed. I hope the TV channels pay reasonable tribute to his memory.

His final leading role was in A Congregation of Ghosts which was filmed this year.
http://acongregationofghosts.com/

He had been married to Michelle Dotrice since 1987.