James Caan, the veteran screen actor known for his work in such films as "The Godfather," "Misery" and "Elf," died yesterday aged 82. RIP
Dermott Donnelly, (Ant’s - of Ant and Dec - brother) a much loved Roman Catholic priest based in the family's native north-east, was being treated at North Durham hospital after collapsing in his Newcastle parish. He was 55 … far too young. RIP
Monty Norman, the prolific composer and lyricist whose works include the famous James Bond theme tune, has died at the age of 94, his family have confirmed. The child of Latvian immigrants, Norman grew up in the East End of London, where his mother bought him his first guitar at the age of 16. He went on to compose for West End shows like Expresso Bongo and Irma La Douce, before moving into film. His Bond theme, commissioned for 1962's Dr No, was used throughout the series. Bond producer Cubby Broccoli had asked Norman to compose the first movie's score, having been impressed with his stage musical CV. RIP
TV presenter Michael Barrett, best known for presenting Nationwide on the BBC, has died at the age of 94, his family has announced. RIP
Former British & Irish Lions tourist Ken Kennedy has died aged 81. Kennedy was part of the 1966 Tour of Australia and New Zealand, and the invincible 1974 Tour of South Africa. The hooker amassed 45 caps for Ireland and was highly regarded for his world class scrummaging ability. Kennedy was born in Rochester, England and studied medicine at Queen’s University in Belfast where he qualified to be a doctor. Away from rugby, Kennedy continued to practice as a doctor in London while playing for London Irish. Kennedy made his Test debut for Ireland in January 1965 against France at Lansdowne Road, with the game finishing a 3-3 draw. The next year, the hooker was selected for the 1966 Tour, where he picked up four Test caps and scored a try in an 11-8 win over Australia at Sydney Cricket Ground. Kennedy missed the 1968 Tour through injury but returned as part of the squad that returned unbeaten from South Africa in 1974. The front rower also stepped in as unofficial medic on Tours thanks to his medical degree. Kennedy’s final Ireland cap came in a 32-4 loss away in Wales in 1975, retiring at the time as the world’s most capped hooker. RIP
