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Rik Mayall death: Tunbridge Wells comedian Bob Mortimer honours The Young Ones star with unusual Twitter tribute

Kent-based comedian Bob Mortimer has honoured his TV star friend Rik Mayall with an unusual tribute.

The 55-year-old - best known for his double act with Vic Reeves - posted a message on Twitter after the death of The Young Ones star.

Mortimer, who lives in Tunbridge Wells, said: "Last time I saw him he grabbed my crotch and said 'Not eaten yet then?' So sad.. Funniest man of his generation."

Rik Mayall when he appeared in The New Statesman in Kent in 2006
Rik Mayall when he appeared in The New Statesman in Kent in 2006

Mayall died aged 56 at his London home yesterday.

It is not yet known what caused his unexpected death.

Mayall shot to fame in The Young Ones and went on to appear in hit shows including Blackadder and Bottom.

Comedian Bob Mortimer's Twitter tribute to Rik Mayall
Comedian Bob Mortimer's Twitter tribute to Rik Mayall
Comedian Bob Mortimer pictured in Tunbridge Wells in 2013. Picture: Martin Apps
Comedian Bob Mortimer pictured in Tunbridge Wells in 2013. Picture: Martin Apps

He has been described by fellow comics as a "genius" and "comedy hero".

Adrian Edmondson said he feels privileged to have worked with him, while Stephen Fry - who appeared alongside Mayall in Blackadder - described him as a "prince among men".

Comedy series The Young Ones starred Ade Edmonson (left) as Vyvyan, Nigel Planner (centre top) as Neil, Christopher Ryan (centre bottom) as Mike and Rik Mayall (right) as Rik
Comedy series The Young Ones starred Ade Edmonson (left) as Vyvyan, Nigel Planner (centre top) as Neil, Christopher Ryan (centre bottom) as Mike and Rik Mayall (right) as Rik

Mayall was happy and healthy in the hours before his death, according to his Comic Strip Presents colleague.

Peter Richardson said his son saw him just 30 minutes before he died.

He said the actor "was such a star" and his death was "very quick".

Pay your tribute to Rik Mayall by leaving a message below.

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