Star: Love Your Neighbor Jack Smethurst dies aged 89

Love Thy Neighbor star Jack Smethurst has passed away peacefully at home at the age of 89, his family has confirmed.

Smethurst played fanatical factory worker Eddie Booth in the 1970s ITV sitcom. His son Adam established the news of his death on Twitter, posting a series of photos from the actor's life and career. "Today, we say goodbye to our love father," he wrote. "He was adored and brought joy to many."   

"Our whole family is grateful for a long and fruitful life," he added. Comedian Tommy Cannon paid tribute on Twitter, remembering how he and Smethurst enjoyed their first panto season together. Actor John Altman, who plays Nick Cotton from EastEnders, wrote: "Sad to hear that my old friend Jack Smethurst has passed away. It was a pleasure working with him."

Actor and singer Robin Asquith described Smethurst as "a keen and extraordinary actor." Born in Manchester in 1932, Smethurst was vacated to Blackpool after his childhood home in the Blitz was destroyed. 

After completing his army service in the RAF, Smerstrst went to the London Academy of Dramatic Arts. In 1959 he joined the British stage company at the Royal Court Theater in John Arden's anti-war play Sergeant Musgrave's Dance, alongside the likes of Dudley Moore.

He debuted his feature film in the 1958 joke Carry On Sergeant, then appeared in the 1960 kitchenware drama A Loving with Alan Bates and Saturday Night and Sunday Morning with Albert Feeney.

But it was in 1972 he landed his most famous role as Booth, a white socialist who was aghast when a black couple moved into the house next door. His screen wife Joan, played by Kate Williams, is kinder.