Ian Lavender dead aged 77: Dad’s Army’s Private Pike and EastEnders actor dies as tributes pour in

DAD'S Army star Ian Lavender has died aged 77.

He played Private Pike in the hit BBC sitcom and was the last surviving member of the cast.

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Announcing his death on Monday, the Dad's Army social media account said his passing "truly marks the end of an era."

The post read: "We are deeply saddened to hear the passing of the wonderful, Ian Lavender.

"His wonderful performance as Private Frank Pike will live on for decades to come.

"He leaves behind a legacy of laughter enjoyed by millions. We will dedicate this year’s tour to his memory.

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

Lavender was just 22 when cast as Private Pike, a junior bank clerk frequently referred to by Captain Mainwaring as "stupid boy".

He spent ten years in the role in what became a comedy classic.

In 2001 Lavender joined EastEnders as Derek Harkinson, a gay friend of Pauline Fowler.

He was a fixture on Albert Square for four years.

Dad's Army - which followed the exploits of the home guard during WWII - ran for nine series between 1968 and 1977.

It became one of the most popular sitcoms in Britain, regularly attracting audiences of 18 million.