Irish actor TP McKenna, a familiar face on screen and stage for decades, has died at the age of 81.

The silver-haired star clocked up appearances in dozens of long-running shows including The Avengers, The Sweeney, Doctor Who and Minder.

Mr McKenna, born Thomas Patrick, but always known by his initials, died in his sleep.

Irish Culture Minister Mary Hanafin led tributes today to the celebrated star, who also had a part in films such as Ulysses, Straw Dogs, and A Portrait Of The Artist As A Young Man.

She said she was saddened to learn of the actor’s death and offered her sympathies to his family, friends and colleagues.

“TP McKenna’s acting career spanned decades and his body of work on stage and screen is considerable,” said Ms Hanafin.

Born in Mullagh, Co Cavan, Mr McKenna began his career at the Abbey Theatre in 1954 and over the next eight years undertook more than 70 different roles.