Comedian and former Todmorden resident Bobby Ball dies, aged 76

The news comes after he had tested positive for COVID-19.

As well as being half of the double-act with his friend Tommy Cannon, Ball, who was born in Oldham in 1944, appeared in sitcoms Not Going Out, Last of the Summer Wine and Benidorm.

Cannon and Ball both began as singers in the pubs and clubs of Manchester before their TV show ran for 11 series during the 1980s.

Ball and Cannon both became born again Christians, which helped repair their friendship after their relationship had broken down years earlier.

Leading the tributes, Cannon said: “Rock on, my good friend, I can’t believe this, I’m devastated.”

Ball’s manager Phil Dale announced “with great personal sadness” that he had died at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on Wednesday evening.

Comedian Jason Manford described Ball as “such a hilarious man”.

Les Dennis described Ball as “a true entertainer with real funny bones”, while comedian Ed Gamble said he was “absolutely pure funny” and “a massive influence”.

Ball was married to his second wife Yvonne and had three children.

What are your memories of Bobby living in Todmorden? Email us at [email protected].