's Are You Being Served? star and singer Mike Berry has died at the age of 82 as tributes from famous friends and loyal fans flood in online. The hitmaker was best known for his top ten hits Don't You Think It's Time in 1963 and The Sunshine of Your Smile in 1980.
His manager and close friend Peter Stockton confirmed the tragic news on Facebook with a touching tribute. It read: "It is with deepest regret that I have to inform everyone that the legendary Mike Berry died peacefully this morning, his family members by his bedside. As we all know, Mike was an amazing, highly talented performer whose career spanned 64 years - hit first hit being the haunting Tribute to Buddy Holly in 1961. His last show on February 23rd at The Half Moon was a sell-out, and was testimony to his superb talent. He was also a gifted actor, highlighted by his performances in the iconic comedy Are You Being Served.
"A tragic loss to our worked of music, and I hope that he is now having a laugh with many of his old pals up in Heaven." Musician David Stark also paid tribute to Mike as he revealed that the star's death was "sudden".
He wrote: "More sad news unfortunately, I'm shocked and saddened to learn we've lost Mike Berry quite suddeny, as our mutual pal and his manager Peter Stockton has just posted. I knew Mike for almost 50 years since 1976, one of the nicest guys in the biz, always with a laugh and a smile.
"His excellent sold out show at the Half Moon Puteny was only a few weeks ago, he was on terrific form and was due to do another one in the summer. Very, very sad news indeed. RIP Mike, you will be missed by everyone who knew you and your music for all these years."
Berry said he never planned to have an acting career but found success in TV adverts before he was cast in Worzel Gummidge back in 1979.
Two years later he joined the cast of show Are You Being Served? and remained a fan-favourite member of the cast until the programme came to an end in 1985.
He most recently performed in a sold-out show at the Half Moon live music pub in Putney, South West London on February 23.
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