Well-known actor Charles Thake has passed away, aged 91.

His son David broke the news on Facebook saying:

"Malta has lost one of its finest. My Dad has taken his last breath and is now chatting away to his beloved wife and my loving Mum.

"It is terrible to receive the news just when you have to catch a flight. I missed you by a few hours. But the love you gave will shine forever.

"Thank you Daddy. God bless you and give you the rest and the peace you deserve.

"I am devastated."

Charles with his son David

Mr Thake had a natural talent for comic parts and was a household name in the local acting scene for several decades.

Born in 1927, he first appeared on stage when he was 15. 

He appeared in numerous local productions on the stage and on television for a number of companies including Maleth, the Atturi Theatre Group and MADC.

Comic productions which remain in the collective memory of the Maltese include F’Baħar Wieħed, Nhar it-Tieġ and Inkwiet.

He also worked with a number of foreign film and television companies and took part in Agora (2009), Black Eagle (1988) and Treasure in Malta (1963).

Mr Thake gained widespread popularity among the Maltese community in Australia, whom he visited in 1982.

He helped the missions in Guatemala whenever he could.

Mr Thake was married to the late Lina Thake. They had six children.