Bobby Ball of comedy duo Cannon & Ball dies after testing positive for Covid-19

Bobby Ball, one half of the comedy double act Cannon & Ball, has died after testing positive for Covid-19.

The 76 year old, known for his catchphrase “Rock on Tommy,” died last night at Blackpool Victoria Hospital.

His wife Yvonne said today she will “always miss” her husband of over 40 years - adding: “He was so joyful, full of fun and mischievous.”

Ball was taken to hospital when he started having breathing problems before being diagnosed with Covid-19.

A statement from his manager Phil Dale read: “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.”

Cannon, 82, said: “Rock on, my good friend, I can’t believe this, I’m devastated.”

Comedian Jason Manford wrote: “So heartbroken to read about the passing of comedy legend Bobby Ball. Such a hilarious man. The comedy community is a poorer place without him.”

Blue singer Antony Costa, who took part in I'm A Celebrity with the star, tweeted: "Just heard the news about my friend and fellow I'm A Celebrity contestant Bobby Ball. I'm devastated by the news. Thoughts go out to the Yvonne and the family. RIP Bobby Ball. So, so sad."

Les Dennis said: "Just heard the sad news that the wonderful Bobby Ball has died. He was a true entertainer with real funny bones. Thoughts with Tommy, Yvonne and his family at this sad time. RIP, Bobby"

I'm A Celebrity presenter Declan Donnelly remembered Bobby Ball, saying he had been one of his "absolute favourite performers growing up".

In a tweet, he wrote: "So sad to hear of the passing of Bobby Ball, one of my absolute favourite performers growing up and one of our favourite ever camp mates on @imacelebrity. Rest In Peace Bobby RockOnTommy D".

Singer Robbie Williams also paid tribute to Bobby Ball.

He tweeted: "God bless you Bobby Ball. Thank you for the memories and the laughter. RIP".

BBC radio presenter Tony Blackburn tweeted: "So sorry to hear that Bobby Ball has passed away. He was a very funny man and gave us some good comedy over the years. RIP, thanks for the laughs."

Nick Knowles tweeted: "Sad news Bobby Ball has died. I went to see C&B when they were at the top of their game in the west end - he just had funny bones. RIP."

Shane Richie tweeted a picture of himself with Ball, saying: "Thirty-five years ago my hero became my friend. You always knew when Bobby was in the room, he could make you laugh and cry with just a look.

"The biggest heart and warmest smile that filled stages everywhere. I loved you Bobby Ball and I always will. Truly, truly one of a kind. Sleep well, cocker."

The performer was born Robert Harper in Oldham, Lancashire, on 28 January 1944. As a young man, he worked in a factory as a welder where he met his future comedy partner Tommy Cannon.

The duo started out as singers touring pubs in Greater Manchester area before switching to comedy because they were told they’d earn more money.

The duo’s primetime Saturday night television series The Cannon and Ball Show, which began in 1979, was hugely successful and ran for almost a decade.

Ball also starred in Heartbeat, Last of the Summer Wine, Not Going Out, and Mount Pleasant. He starred in I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here in 2005.

The performer is survived by two sons, Robert and Darren, with his first wife Joan Lynn. He has a daughter, Joanne, with Yvonne.

The couple, who live in Lytham, Lancashire, have been married for 46 years. They have 10 grandchildren and two great grandchildren.