Former Coronation Street star Les Dennis paid tribute to his "lovely friend" on what would have been his 80th birthday.
Dustin Gee was a comedian and actor, best known for being part of a double act with Les. That partnership came to a tragic end in 1986, when Dustin suffered a heart attack and died at the age of just 43. The comedian had been starring in the pantomime Cinderella in Southport at the time.
Taking to Twitter on Friday, Les marked what would have been his friend's birthday. He wrote: "My lovely friend and comedy partner, Dustin Gee, would have been 80 today. Miss you, mate xx." A picture of Dustin smiling accompanied the post.
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Many fans were quick to share their memories of Dustin, and sent messages of support to Les.
One person wrote: "Can't tell you how starstruck it got on Christmas Day in the Wellington Inn in York, Dustin would be in with the family once in a while. I'd stand there are look at him as it was Dustin and he wasn't inside the tv."
Another said: "I used to love watching you both on telly as a kid. I hope his memory is the blessing to you that I am sure it is", as a third added: "Les you and Dustin were an amazing act I loved Saturday Nights back then."
A fourth echoed: "I remember the BBC promoting you as the new Morecambe and Wise and being so excited when your show came on TV. Dustin’s death was a tragedy and it is so beautiful that you honour his memory. Laughter can last more than a lifetime."
Last year, Garston-born Les celebrated 50 years in showbusiness as a comic, television presenter and actor. After starting in comedy, his big break came in 1974 when he appeared on talent show New Faces.
He went on to appear on various entertainment shows before forming a comedy partnership with Dustin Gee as they created their show The Laugher Show.
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