A Gavin and Stacey icon has announced they will be taking a step back from acting, with their role on the show potentially being their last.

Larry Lamb is known for his role as Mick Shipman on the popular BBC sitcom.

Lamb, who is now 77, has had an extensive career that has spanned five decades.

He said that the character of Mick is the "closest to my heart", with the role being in the latest Christmas special likely being his last TV role.

Larry Lamb played Mick Shipman in Gavin and Stacey (Image: Ian West/PA Wire)

Speaking to The Mail, Lamb said he will be focusing on a new novel.

While suggesting he will be taking a step back from acting, he did say he may still take on small stage parts to "keep my face in".

He said: "I have had a very fortunate career. I've done so much that I am really proud of that maybe not so many people know.

'I have worked at the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, I have been in 12 West End shows, I have done all the principal fringe theatres in London, on Broadway, I have been very........

© South Wales Argus