‘Enormous contribution’ hailed

BRITISH filmmaker Lewis Gilbert, who directed three James Bond films including The Spy Who Loved Me, will be ‘‘sorely missed’’, Bond producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli said.

Gilbert died last week aged 97.

Born in London in 1920, he also directed Educating Rita and Alfie — the film which made Michael Caine a star and earned Gilbert an Oscar nomination.

Wilson and Broccoli said: ‘‘It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of our dear friend, Lewis Gilbert.

‘‘Lewis was a true gentleman. He made an enormous contribution to the British film industry as well as the Bond films, directing You Only Live Twice, The Spy Who Loved Me and Moonraker.

‘‘His films are not only loved by us but are considered classics within the series.’’

Gilbert made his Bond debut with 1967’s You Only Live Twice

starring Sean Connery, before going on to oversee The Spy Who Loved Me (1977) and Moonraker

(1979), both starring Roger Moore.

His final film, 2002’s Before You Go, resulted in his teaming up again with Educating Rita

star Julie Walters.

Among those paying tribute on Twitter were comedian David Walliams, who thanked Gilbert ‘‘for or all the joy you brought me and millions of others’’. — PA