A much-loved TV actor known for roles in Holby City and Midsomer Murders has died aged 81. Desmond Barrit's passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow actors, friends and fans, many of whom praised his long career and memorable performances on some of Britain's best-loved shows. Reports indicate he died suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Islington. News of his death was confirmed in a series of heartfelt tributes, with the National Theatre leading the outpouring.

In a moving statement, they said: "Des brought his sublime talent and massive heart to everything from Shakespeare to Sondheim, new plays to raucous pantomime. He was expertly funny. He was a hilarious ringmaster announcing 'Comedy Tonight' in the National Theatre's outstanding revival of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. "But he could break hearts as well, and I had the privilege of directing him as a devastating Big Daddy in Cat On a Hot Tin Roof at the Theatr Clwyd in 2016. A generous and joyous man, he will be much missed."

Born in Morriston, near Swansea, in Glamorgan, Desmond wasted no time in establishing himself in front of audiences. One of his earliest screen roles came in 1998's Alice Through the Looking Glass, where he played Humpty Dumpty.

He soon made a name for himself on stage, delivering a standout performance as Shylock in Chichester Festival Theatre's 2003 production of The Merchant of Venice.

His stage success continued with a role in The History Boys at Wyndham's Theatre, where he took on the part of much-loved teacher Hector - a role famously played on screen by Richard Griffiths.

In 2004, he appeared in a limited-run revival of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum at the Royal National Theatre, starring as Pseudolus alongside Philip Quast, Hamish McColl and Isla Blair.

The production went on to receive a nomination for the 2005 Olivier Award for Outstanding Musical Production.

Desmond also became a familiar face on television, including a memorable role as Raymond Clandillon in a 2007 episode of Midsomer Murders titled They Seek Him Here, as well as appearances in BBC's Holby City.

His career in musical theatre saw him step into the role of the Wizard in Wicked at London's Apollo Victoria Theatre in July 2008.

More recently, he appeared in 2014 as Michaud in Helen Edmundson's adaptation of Thérèse Raquin at the Theatre Royal, Bath.

Tributes continued to flood in from across the industry for Desmond, known affectionately as 'Des' to family and friends. Screenwriter Russell Davies said: "A giant, a lion and a joy, he'll be much missed. Goodnight to a great man."

Actor Joseph Millson added: "So sad to hear of the passing of Des Barrit. "I was in three productions with him, each a real flag in the sand for my career.

"Des was a kind mess of humanity and a consummate actor every single time. So many stories. Fare forward friend."