Bobby Knutt tribute from Rotherham actor Dean

Dean, from Bolton on Dearne, revealed that Benidorm star Bobby — who died suddenly on Monday while on holiday in France — on had been scheduled to film with him for the new series of sitcom Up North over the next couple of weeks.

“We were due to film with Bobby when he got back from France,” said Dean. “It was a secret only a few of the cast knew.

“He was going to be playing my dad in Up North and I had chatted to him a number of times on the phone.

“He was so looking forward to filming two scenes

“I am shocked and saddened."

“The last thing he said to me on the phone was: ‘God Bless’.”

The second series of Up North — which is written by Dean with producer-director Steve Call — is due to launch on October 16 on online and freeview channel Sheffield Live, and stars well-known comedy performers Billy Pearce and Bernie Clifton.

Rotherham viewers should look out for Clifton Park and its museum, which were used as filming locations.

Other locations include Blackpool, Bradford, Wombwell and Wath.

Dean said: “My dream was to get Up North on TV and thanks to Sheffield Live it is now on local TV. 

“The reruns of series one on Sheffield Live! have gone down well andthe trailer for series two is now showing on their channel.”