BURT KWOUK, who was best known for playing Inspector Clouseau’s manservant Cato in the “Pink Panther” films, has died aged 85.

He appeared in seven “Pink Panther” films opposite Peter Sellers as Clouseau’s servant who regularly attacked his employer to keep him alert.

He also starred in BBC sitcom “Last of the Summer Wine” from 2002 to 2010.

The actor, who was born in Warrington but raised in Shanghai, was awarded an OBE in the 2011 New Year Honors List.

A statement issued by his agent said: “Beloved actor Burt Kwouk has sadly passed peacefully away. The family will be having a private funeral but there will be a memorial at a later date.”

On the big screen Kwouk also appeared in three James Bond films including “Goldfinger” and “You Only Live Twice.”

Kwouk had a long TV career, appearing in numerous TV shows including “The Avengers” and “Doctor Who.” He also played Major Yamauchi in the 1980s wartime television drama “Tenko.” Kwouk started acting in 1954 after his family left the mainland in 1949. His big break came 10 years later when director Blake Edwards offered him the part of Cato Fong.

He is survived by his wife Caroline Tebbs, who he married in 1961 and a son.

(SD-Agencies)