Popular EastEnders actor Derek Martin dies aged 92

He appeared in the soap for over a decade.

He played Charlie Slater in the show, first appearing on Albert Square in 2000.

The actor's death was confirmed via social media by a family friend. They wrote: "It is with deepest regret to announce that Derek Martin / Derek Rapp. Age of 92. At 7pm this evening Derek has sadly passed away in Hospital about an hour ago.

My Mum and his Son David was with Derek the whole time."

The friend added: "Derek was truly an amazing person who was very talented in the filming industry and many other things. A great man, Father of two Sons & a fantastic family friend. We will miss you Derek. RIP."

Fans were left furious when his character was axed in 2010, however he made a handful of reappearances until his character was reveled to have died and was finally seen in a flashback scene in 2018.

Before acting, Martin worked as a professional gambler, a motor racer, a debt collector, and a worker in a meat market.

He first entered the television industry as a stuntman, and appeared in several episodes of Doctor Who.

However, he broke his collarbone while shooting the drama Elizabeth R in 1971, before making the switch to acting.

Mr Martin also appeared in other shows such as Law & Order, The Chinese Detective, and Minder; as well as guest appearances in The Bill, Upstairs, Downstairs, Only Fools and Horses, Messenger of the Gods and Little Britain.

Additionally, he appeared in several films including The Sex Thief (1973), Eskimo Nell (1975), and Spaghetti House (1982).

Te actor was married twice in his life, to Christine Rigg in 1961 and to Gloria Mitchell in 1971, however both ended in divorce.

Tributes have been pouring in for the actor on X, with one saying: "RIP to the wonderful Derek Martin. Charlie Slater was one of the greats of the 2000s."

"Sad to hear EastEnders legend and thoroughly nice man Derek Martin has left us. Met him last year and back in 2012 and he was lovely, cheeky and had some fascinating stories!" said another.

He is survived by his sons Jonathan and David.