Alan Simpson, co-writer of UK sitcoms Hancock and Steptoe and Son RIP

Co-writer with Ray Galton of two of the finest sitcoms ever to grace the screen (and radio) - and both of them still hold up well today, especially Steptoe, which relies less on the actor's well-established persona.

FRIDAY NIGHT BOYS: Alan Simpson RIP

Both are easily in my top five UK sitcoms (and possibly top five overall)