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.

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"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."

Little Britain's Matt Lucas paid tribute on Twitter, writing: "Eddie Large (along with his supersonic friend Syd) was really lovely and kind and encouraging to me when I was a nipper on Shooting Stars. So sad to hear of his passing."

Actress Kate Robbins remembered Large as a "great chap".

She tweeted: "Sorry to hear the comedian Eddie Large has died. What a great chap he was. A real pro. Rest in peace Eddie."

Jason Manford tweeted: "So sorry to hear about Eddie Large passing away. Came to every comedy and musical show I did whenever I hit Bristol and was always around for a chat about comedy and Man City afterwards. Such a gentle, funny man. RIP Eddie."

A post from Manchester City Football Club on Twitter said: "Everyone at Manchester City is sad to hear that lifelong City fan and celebrity Eddie Large has passed away aged 78.

"Our thoughts are with Eddie's friends and family at this difficult time."

Paul Chuckle remembered Large as a "funny and lovely man" in a tweet, writing: "RIP the very talented Eddie Large. Such a funny and lovely man. Love goes out to his family at this time."

Call The Midwife actor Stephen McGann tweeted: "Poor Eddie Large ?? A constant feature on telly in my life. Love to his family. xx."

Frank Bruno tweeted: "RIP Eddie Large of Little & Large we spent loads of quality time together including pantomimes and TV appearances Funny funny man & great to work with."

Film director Edgar Wright shared an anecdote on Twitter, writing: "In the 80's my family were on the M5, overtaking a car with a massive Little & Large decal on the back. I was bemused a sticker even existed, then floored to see Eddie Large himself driving (with Syd in shotgun). I waved furiously. My 1st celebrity sighting & still the best. RIP."

Sir Lenny Henry tweeted: "Eddie Large died. Midnight Matinee Great Yarmouth 1978. They finished part one. I'd never heard laughter like it. Rude, raucous and rollicking. Dunno how they did it, but Eddies energy and electricity and impressions and props and improv were hugely impressive. R.I.P."