MIKE Winters, one half of a pioneering British comedy double act, has died at his Fairford home, aged 82.

The comedian, who was best known as playing the straight man alongside his goofy brother, died on Tuesday, August 27 following a short illness.

The pair rose to fame in the 1950s after appearing on such television shows as Variety Parade and Sunday Night at the London Palladium.

Mr Winters’ wife of 57 years, Cassie, told a national newspaper: “He was funny right up until the end. He would be in bed and very quiet – and then he would say something that would make everyone laugh.

“He had an incredible life. In fact there were times when he couldn’t believe just how incredible his life really was.”

The brothers really came into the public eye in 1962 after performing for the Queen on the prestigious Royal Variety Show.

Mike and Bernie Winters became regular household names after securing their own show between 1965 and 1973 and appearing on screen with entertainment giants such as The Beatles, Tommy Cooper and Frankie Howard.

Moving away from television, Mike wrote five books including his memoir before emigrating to Florida where he produced plays and boxing events.

Born as Michael Weinstein in North London, Mike Winters was an accomplished musician who studied clarinet at the Royal Academy of Music.

He enlisted in the Merchant Navy during the Second World War before joining the Canadian legion and holding the rank as captain.

Mr Winters is survived by his wife, two children and five grandchildren.