Comedian Eddie Large has died at the age of 78 after contracting coronavirus while he was being treated in hospital for heart failure.

The Little And Large star was best known for his partnership with Syd Little.

His son Ryan McGinnis posted on Facebook: “It is with great sadness that mum and I need to announce that my dad passed away in the early hours of this morning.

“He had been suffering with heart failure and unfortunately, whilst in hospital, contracted the coronavirus, which his heart was sadly not strong enough to fight.”

His agent Peter Mansfield confirmed his death, telling the PA news agency: “His family were very sad not to be able to be in the same room as him, touching him, in the last week because of coronavirus.

“They were only able to speak on the phone which was obviously very sad for them.

“But they wanted to say thank you to the NHS which was fantastic throughout.”

He added: “He was at Southmead Hospital and the Papworth Hospital, which did his heart transplant 17 years ago, were in constant communication and a great help as well.

“The family wanted to say how grateful they are for the extra 17 years that they have had with Eddie. And a huge thank you to the donor and the donor’s family.”