READERS reacted to the news that Ian Lavender, who played Private Pike in the hit BBC sitcom Dad's Army, died at the age of 77.

The iconic actor from Birmingham was 22 when was cast for the role of Private Pike decades ago.

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 9 seasons and first landed on BBC One in 1968 before coming to an end in 1977.

Our readers shared their condolences.

Irene Hutchinson said: "Rest in peace enjoyed Dad's Army," and Jeffers Scott said: "So sad loved watching Dad's Army as a boy, my cousin acted with him in Good Night Sweetheart."

Alison Carter added: "Rest in peace great actor loved watching you."

One web user said: "Sad news. Like many of us, I grew up with Dad's Army. How many shows from over 50 years ago are just as funny now as they were when they were first aired? Completely inoffensive, just good old-fashioned fun, thanks to wonderful writing and a cast of incredibly talented actors who practically became family friends. Thank you for fifty years of laughs and rest in peace Ian, you'll be sadly missed."

After Ian's first appearance on Dad's Army alongside Arthur Lowe, John Le Mesurier and John Laurie, he would go on to star in 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.