Comedian Norman Vaughan dies

Norman Vaughan first achieved stardom in 1962

Entertainer Norman Vaughan has died in hospital, where he was receiving treatment after being injured in a traffic accident. He was 79.

The former host of the live television programme Sunday Night at the London Palladium passed away on Friday evening at the Royal London Hospital in east London.

Following a tragic accident Norman died on Friday evening despite the unremitting efforts of staff at the Royal London Hospital

Family spokesman

The comedian had been knocked down by a car while crossing the road on 17 April.

Mr Vaughan became a star in January 1962, when he took over as host of the live variety show.

He retained the role for three years, and was particularly known for his catchphrases "swinging" and "dodgy".

His role involved introducing some of the world's biggest stars, including Judy Garland, Tommy Cooper, Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra and Harry Secombe.

In 1965 he left the show, passing the job of host along to Jimmy Tarbuck.

New role

But Mr Vaughan remained in the public eye by starring in a long-running advertising campaign for Cadbury's Roses chocolates.

He also helped to create the game show Bullseye and hosted The Golden Shot and Mr and Mrs.

Mr Vaughan leaves behind a wife, son and three step-daughters from his first marriage.

On Saturday a spokesman for the comedian's family said: "Following a tragic accident Norman died on Friday evening, despite the unremitting efforts of staff at the Royal London Hospital."