Desmond Barrit, an Olivier award-winning actor who has championed theatres across Norfolk, has died aged 81.

From his role as panto dame at Norwich Theatre Royal to starring in the West End and TV shows such as It's A Sin, he is known for his spectacular performances across the stage and screen.

And as a director of pantomimes at the Pavilion Theatre in Gorleston and Sheringham Little Theatre, he has also been remembered for his passion and support for local theatres.

Desmond Barrit has died at 81. (Image: Supplied)

Desmond Barrit and Matthew Kelly for Twelfth Night at Houghton Hall (Image: Newsquest)

Alex Youngs, chief executive of the Gorleston Pavilion Trust, said: "Des was a towering icon of British theatre and absolutely loved his role in supporting small theatres.

"The team were always humbled by his generosity and his grounded, down-to-earth nature.

"He was an absolutely formidable presence, and we were privileged to have known him."

Cinderella at the Pavilion Theatre in Gorleston, on December 10, 2005. Ian Westbrook (Image: Amanda Sandland-Taylor)

Debbie Thompson, Sheringham Little Theatre director, added: "We were very honoured to have the support of such an acclaimed actor as Des. We will miss him."

The Norwich Theatre Royal also issued a statement following the news which said: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Desmond Barrit.

"A major figure in Norwich Theatre history, Des was part of a gala opening season for the newly refurbished Theatre Royal and the creative force behind our pantos from 1996 - 2002 as a writer, director, and iconic Dame.

"He will be sorely missed, and our thoughts go out to his family and friends at this time."

Desmond Barrit played a range of Shakespearean roles and was had won an Olivier award (Image: Nobby Clark)

The Welsh-born actor also played numerous roles on screen, including opposite Patrick Stewart in a TV adaptation of A Christmas Carol, and in It's A Sin on Channel 4 in 2021.

Paying tribute on social media, its writer Russell T Davies described Mr Barrit as a "giant, a lion, and a joy" and said: "He'll be much missed. Goodnight to a great man."

Sheringham Little Theatre has said Mr Barrit died unexpectedly at home in Islington, north London, on March 21 where he lived with his partner, Byron.

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