Patrick's long and happy career spanned numerous films, television shows and theatre productions. But an entire generation will remember him as the quintessential English gentleman John Steed in The Avengers.

John Dorney, script editor and lead writer for Big Finish's range of Avengers titles, writes in tribute.

'There are a lot of very good actors in the world. But it takes a special sort of performer to become an icon. Patrick Macnee was one such performer.

'I've been watching a lot of The Avengers these last few years. And it's very clear to see how Macnee attained his mythic status. The perfect combination of man and role, his effortless charm and charisma, lights up the screen in each episode. Every one-liner is delivered with a roguish twinkle, yet he always manages to be the perfect English gentleman.

'The fact that we are still telling stories about The Avengers fifty years later is a testament to the strength of his performance. So it's with huge regret that I doff my bowler hat, and raise a glass of champagne to the mighty Macnee. Rest in peace.'