Dawn French pays tribute after Vicar of Dibley co-star Gary Waldhorn dies, aged 78

Dawn French has paid tribute to her Vicar of Dibley co-star Gary Waldhorn, who has died, aged 78.

Waldhorn was best known for playing Councillor David Horton opposite Dawn French in the BBC sitcom.

His character was the chairman of the parish council.

Waldhorn, whose other credits include Brush Strokes, Lovejoy and Gallowglass, died on Monday (10 January).

The news was confirmed by his son Josh, who said: “Classically trained, it was the theatre where he truly flourished and he leaves a legacy of entertainment that saw him frequent the boards of Broadway, the West End and our living rooms on the telly!

“He leaves behind his two grandsons, Cooper and Bayley and his son Josh. We will all miss him terribly.”

Following the announcement of Waldhorn’s death, French – who p;ayed Geraldine in the series – shared a photo of the actor alongside a broken-heart emoji.

BBC Comedy paid tribute to Waldhorn, writing: “Gary was an incredibly talented actor who is fondly remembered by us for his numerous appearances on some of the nations most treasured BBC shows, and of course as Councillor David Horton in The Vicar of Dibley.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

Waldhorn was a star of stage and screen, and performed many times as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company.

He first starred in Vicar of Dibley in 1994, last playing David in a Red Nose Day special in 2015.