"Are You Being Served?" actor John Inman dies

LONDON, Mar 8 (Reuters) Actor John Inman, best known for his role as camp shop assistant Mr Humphries in the long-running BBC comedy ''Are You Being Served?'' died aged 71 today.

Inman, who later became a pantomime regular, was one of the sitcom's most memorable cast members and his catchphrase ''I'm free'' became part of popular culture.

In 1976, he was voted ''Funniest Man On Television'' by readers of TV Times magazine and was also named BBC TV's ''Personality Of The Year''.

He died at St Mary's Hospital in London after being ill for some time, his manager Phil Dale said in a statement released to the media.

''John, through his character Mr Humphries of Are You Being Served? was known and loved throughout the world,'' Dale said.

''He was one of the best and finest pantomime dames working to capacity audiences throughout Britain.

''John was known for his comedy plays and farces which were enjoyed from London's West End throughout the country and as far as Australia, Canada and the USA.'' Inman's long-term partner Ron Lynch was ''devastated'' at the news, the BBC said.

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