MAX Bygraves, the legendary entertainer and former Bournemouth man, has died at the age of 89.

The actor, comedian and singer was an all-round showman, famed for performing in theatres across the UK, including the London Palladium and Victoria Palace.

His agent, Jonny Mans, made the announcement of his death, stating that Bygraves had passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Australia.

However, it all started during World War Two, when Max realised that he could make people laugh, with his long career seeing him star in countless TV shows and films including Singalongamax and A Cry from the Streets.

Bygraves was well-known for his catchphrase ‘I wanna tell you a story’ and also for the many Sing Along with Max CDs that he brought out, with a pinnacle of his career being awarded an OBE in 1982.

He lived in Bournemouth for a number of years, with his wife, Blossom, before moving to Australia to enjoy his later years in the sun.

Back in June this year, his daughter, Christine, wrote to the Daily Echo, asking for readers to send her father a postcard with their memories, as it turned out that Max was suffering from Alzheimer’s.

Fans replied in their droves, sending letters, cards and pictures to Hope Island, in Australia, where Max lived, recalling seeing him performing, or making an appearance across Dorset.

Ray Townson, 87, and his wife, Enid, 83, from Bournemouth recalled seeing Max open local church fetes, with Ray saying: “We miss Max – he was a great entertainer and a great man.”

Enid added: “We used to see him at Chez Fred’s fish and chip shop.

“He had a nice personality and, although I never spoke to him, I enjoyed being in his presence.”

More memories and thoughts were posted on the Daily Echo website.

Rudolph_huckler, said: “He’s a rare breed. A true gent and performer, he has entertained so many folk in his time. I doff my cap to him.”

Another, H2o-hara, said: “Like the Beatles at the time, Max too was also part of my childhood.”

They could also recall Max moving to Sandbourne Road, near Alum Chine, and buying cigars and newspapers from a newsagents on Maxwell Road, in Canford Cliffs .

Praelis, said: “Much love to him, and we need more like him and the entertainers from the 80s.”

WHAT is your favourite memory of the entertainer, Max Bygraves?