IRISH ACTOR BEN Keaton, who played Father Austin Purcell in Father Ted, had died at the age of 69.

As well as an appearance on Father Ted, Keaton also featured in over 50 episodes of Casualty, was the creator and writer of children’s BBC show Hububb and appeared in the comedy-drama film East is East.

Mr Keaton died on Friday, 20 March at the Lincoln County Hospital.

His death notice states that “Ben will be forever greatly missed, loved and fondly remembered by his ex-wife Polly, son Waldo and daughter Daisy, brothers Des and Thom, sister Jeanette”.

Mr Keaton began his career as a comedian and was the founder of Creative Academy, which provides workshops from a professional artist to primary school teachers.

In a statement this evening, Creative Academy described Mr Keaton as an “ an incredible actor, writer, teacher and father, whose passion for creativity and belief in young people shaped everything we do”.

“He inspired countless children, schools and colleagues with his generosity, imagination and commitment to helping others find their voice,” added the statement.

“His impact will be felt for many years to come, in the confidence and creativity of the children he worked with, and in the community he helped to build.

“We are deeply grateful for all that he gave, and our thoughts are with his family at this time.”