Prolific TV actor dies at age of 83

Gwen Taylor has led the tributes to her former Duty Free on-screen husband, Keith Barron, following his death aged 83.

The prolific actor - who also starred in Dennis Potter’s The Nigel Barton Plays and 1975 Hollywood film The Land That Time Forgot - died on Tuesday after a short illness, his agent confirmed.

Barron enjoyed a “long and varied career . . . of which he was immensely proud”, the statement said referencing his many roles across television which included appearances in Coronation Street, Casualty, DCI Banks, Doctors, Holby City and Benidorm.

But it was 80s sitcom Duty Free where he garnered his reputation as a much-loved star.

Set in Spain, the ITV show ran for three series from 1984 until 1986 with Barron starring as gruff northerner David Pearce alongside Taylor as his wife Amy.

Taylor, who in 2014 toured with Barron in a stage version of the show, said news of his death was “quite a blow”.

She added: “Keith was such a kind and lovely man and I don’t think I’ve met anyone that would disagree. My thoughts and prayers go to his loving wife Mary and his son Jamie – who meant so much to him.”

Emmerdale actress Samantha Giles also paid tribute, saying she “adored” Barron.

The actor is survived by his wife of 58 years Mary and his son, James, also an actor.

Keith Barron: the versatile actor has died aged 83