A Cambridgeshire theatre group has paid tribute to their "wonderful" patron, the Dad's Army actor Ian Lavender.

Soham-based Viva Arts & Community Group shared their memories following the 77-year-old's death on February 2.  

The group said: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the wonderful Ian Lavender, Viva supporter and patron. 

"Our thoughts are with Ian's wonderful wife Miki, their family and friends." 

The actor from Birmingham was 22 when he was cast for the role of Private Pike in the hit BBC sitcom Dad's Army.

He would end up spending 10 years in the role and would go on to become a household name across the UK.

Dad's Army aired for nine seasons and first landed on BBC One in 1968 before coming to an end in 1977.

After his first appearance on Dad's Army alongside Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier and John Laurie, he would go on to star in a number of other works such as the Carry On film Carry On Behind which was released in 1975.

The star was the last surviving main cast member from the original series.