In pictures: Sir Norman Wisdom

1 of 7 Comic actor Sir Norman Wisdom, who has retired from showbusiness on his 90th birthday, began his film career in 1948. He wore his trademark cloth cap and ill-fitting suit in more than 20 movies including 1953's Trouble in Store.

2 of 7 He played hapless sailor Norman Puckle in 1960 film The Bulldog Breed, one of a string of characters to share Sir Norman's first name, lopsided grin and clumsy persona. He also adopted the catchphrase "Mr Grimsdale!".

3 of 7 In 1976, Sir Norman was a performer on BBC special A Jubilee of Music - to mark the Queen's Silver Jubilee the following year. He sang his signature tune Don't Laugh At Me ('Cause I'm a Fool).

4 of 7 Sir Norman's film career established him as Albania's national comedy hero, but as it began to wane he returned to television, including appearances on BBC sitcom Last of the Summer Wine.

5 of 7 He earned a Bafta award for a rare straight performance as a terminally ill cancer patient in the 1978 play Going Gently. He also put comedy aside for a part in long-running TV series Casualty in 1998.

6 of 7 Sir Norman was knighted for his services to entertainment in 2000, when he was unable to resist performing a comedy trip as he left the ceremony. The Queen was said to have been very amused by his antics.

7 of 7 His agent explained that Sir Norman wanted to retire at 90 because "he wants to play golf, drive around the Isle of Man, where he lives, and see his kids now and again". He is pictured here with daughter Jacqueline, son Nicholas and his grandson.