EastEnders has paid tribute after the family of television star Ray Brooks announced his death, age 86. The performer, who appeared in both Coronation Street and EastEnders, died on Saturday following a brief illness, his relatives told the BBC.

He was also the voice behind Mr Benn, providing narration for the 1970s children’s programme. The actor’s sons Will and Tom released a heartfelt statement confirming his passing. They revealed that while their father believed he was most recognised for his Mr Benn work, members of the public would be “continually asking him to say the catchphrase ‘as if by magic!'”

In the statement to the BBC, his family said: “Although only 13 episodes were made, they were repeated twice a year for 21 years.

“His three true loves were family [he also had a daughter Emma, who died in 2003], Fulham Football Club, and spending time in Brighton, where he was born.”

A statement from EastEnders says the team are “deeply saddened” by his death and thoughts are with Ray’s friends and family. The statement reads: “We are deeply saddened to hear that Ray Brooks has passed away.

“Ray will always be remembered fondly by everyone that worked with him at EastEnders. Our love and thoughts are with Ray’s family and friends.”

Ray first graced the Corrie cobbles in the 1960s, taking on the role of Norman Philips in the long-standing ITV soap. Nearly four decades later, he switched sides, joining BBC’s EastEnders as Joe Macer.

His character is most remembered for the murder of his wife Pauline Fowler. However, throughout his extensive career in showbiz, Ray also appeared as the male lead in the pioneering 1960s BBC drama Cathy Come Home.

He later starred in the 1980s hit Big Deal as Robbie Box in the series before later appearing in Running Wild as the comic lead Max Wild.