SIR Ken Dodd, one of the most popular comedians of his time, has died aged 90.

The funny man from Liverpool had recently been released from hospital after six weeks of treatment for a chest infection.

Sir Ken was famous for his very long stand up shows - complete with Diddy Men and tickling stick - and was set to play the Parr Hall again on April 29.

But on Wednesday he announced the tour had been cancelled.

On Friday, he married Anne Jones, his partner of 40 years, at their home - the same one he grew up in in Knotty Ash.

His publicist Robert Holmes revealed the sad news at 1.30am.

He said: "He passed away in the home that he was born in over 90 years ago. He's never lived anywhere else.”Celebrities and fans have been paying tribute to Sir Ken on social media.

Speaking to the Warrington Guardian last year, he said the town held fond memories for him.

He turned professional in 1954 and the first time he topped the bill was at the Royal Court in Warrington in 1957.

“I believe in years gone by it became a Job Centre and I suppose it was in those days as well,” Ken added.

“I was so proud. To see your name at the top of the bill was wonderful. I felt like I’d arrived. I’ve always had a marvellous crowd in Warrington.”

And Jacqui Toft, writing on our Facebook page, recalled meeting the legend.

She said: "Met him just over a year ago after one of his marathon shows at Warrington Parr Hall.

"A group of us hung around the stage door afterwards hoping to see him. He came out well past midnight, was very apologetic that he had kept us waiting and stood chatting to us for over half an hour telling jokes and laughing with us.

"The funniest comedian I have ever seen. He was a comedy genius.

"Today is a very sad day."

For more tributes to Sir Ken click here