River City star Andy Gray has died at the age of 61.

The Perth-based actor played Pete Galloway on the popular BBC Scotland soap.

Andy left River City in 2018, after he was diagnosed with a rare type of blood cancer, MDS or Myelodysplastic syndromes.

Andy's other roles included the TV shows City Lights and Naked Video.

Tributes flooded in to the actor, also an accomplished stage star, who was called a "national treasure".

BBC Scotland director Steve Carson said: “We are deeply saddened by the news that one of Scotland’s much loved comedy actors and close friend to many at BBC Scotland has passed away."

Andy Gray, seen in River City, has died aged 61

He continued: "Among many roles for the BBC he will always be lovingly remembered as audience favourites, the iconic ‘Chancer’ in City Lights and the silver tongued entertainer Pete Galloway in River City.

"On screen and in person he could always make you laugh and was one of the kindest people to have around on any production. Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time.”

The actor's co-stars paid tribute to their friend and colleague

Also paying tribute to the much-loved actor was his onscreen wife, River City's Caitlin McLean. She reflected on her time working with him.

She told The Scottish Sun: "When you were in his presence you could feel it was of greatness. The most kind, clever, funny beyond measure, beautiful man.

"One of the finest our country has ever had the pleasure to experience and we were so lucky to have had the time we did with you.

As well as his telly work, Andy was also an accomplished stage actor

"Andy – you will be achingly missed. Your laugh will echo in Scotland’s heart and you will never be forgotten. Love you forever.”

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