Titanic and Lord of the Rings star Bernard Hill dies aged 79

The actor Bernard Hill has died at the age of 79, his agent has confirmed.

He was best known for playing Captain Edward Smith in the 1997 Oscar-winning film Titanic and for another prominent role as King Théoden in the Rings trilogy.

Bernard's breakout role in acting was as scouser Yosser Hughes in drama Boys from the Blackstuff.

The 79 year old grew up in the Blackley area of Manchester. Hill attended Xaverian College and Manchester Polytechnic School of Drama.

He graduated with a diploma in theatre in 1970.

Tributes are being paid by Bernard's co-stars.

If your favourite music icons are the Spice Girls and your favourite Ks are Kylie and the Kardashians, you need heat Radio in your life! heat Radio is portable, so you can listen to us on the move. Simply download our app from your phone’s app store, listen online at heatradio.com and at heatworld.com. We’re on all the smart speakers too, just say “play heat Radio".