By Comedy legend dies after Covid-19 diagnosis
The much-loved comedian and actor Bobby Ball has died aged 76 after testing positive for coronavirus.
He died at Blackpool Victoria Hospital last night (Wednesday).
Ball was one half of the comedy duo Cannon and Ball alongside his long-time friend and colleague Tommy Cannon.
Cannon said: “Rock on, my good friend, I can’t believe this, I’m devastated.”
Ball also starred in several sitcoms including Not Going Out, Last of the Summer Wine, Benidorm and Heartbeat.
Ball’s manager Phil Dale said in a statement: “It is with great personal sadness that on behalf of Yvonne Ball, and the family, and Tommy Cannon, I announce that Bobby Ball passed away at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on the 28th October 2020 approximately 21:30.
“Bobby had been taken to the hospital for tests as he started with breathing problems.
“At first it was thought to be a chest infection but a test proved positive for Covid-19.
“His wife Yvonne said the hospital and staff could not have been more wonderful, as they were outstanding in their care of duty and they did everything possible for him and she cannot praise them enough.
“She said that the family and Tommy would like to express their sincere thanks to the many, many people who have been fans of Bobby and they know that they will all share in part the great loss and total sadness that Yvonne, the family and Tommy all feel.
“Yvonne added that their need for privacy at this time has to be a priority. No further announcements or statements will be made.”
Robert Harper (Bobby Ball) and Thomas Derbyshire (Tommy Cannon) were both born in Oldham. They met in the early 1960s while working as welders in the same factory.
The pair appeared all over the country, often in seaside towns, including in Cleethorpes as a support act for Tony Christie.
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