John Bluthal dead: Vicar of Dibley's Frank Pickle dies aged 89

'Bye darlin Bluey,' says co-star Dawn French

John Bluthal has died, aged 89 (Rex/Shutterstock)

John Bluthal, the actor best known for playing Frank Pickle in The Vicar of Dibley, has died aged 89.

Bluthal played the secretary for the parish council in the popular show.

Dawn French led tributes to her former co-star, after his talent agency announced the news online.

"Tons of happy laughs remembered today. Cheeky, naughty, hilarious. Bye darlin Bluey," the actress wrote on Twitter.

Bluthal also appeared in multiple Carry On films and in The Return of the Pink Panther, in a career in film and television that spanned almost six decades.

"We're sad to announce our wonderful client John Bluthal has passed away," talent agency The Agent's Partnership wrote in a statement.

"Our thoughts are with his family at this time. John provided us all with years of laughter and entertainment. We will miss John hugely."