TRIBUTES have been paid to actor Simon Shelton, best known for playing purple Teletubby Tinky Winky, following his death at the age of 52.

Actress Emily Atack said her “wonderful uncle” had been “taken so suddenly” and was “the kindest and most talented man you could ever wish to meet.”

Shelton took over the role of handbag-carrying Tinky Winky after original actor Dave Thompson was sacked in 1997. Other roles included The Dark Knight in children’s TV show “Incredible Games.”

According to the actor’s son Henry, Shelton died Jan. 17.

The original “Teletubbies” ran on the BBC from 1997 to 2001. The series was watched by around 1 billion children in more than 120 countries in 45 languages.

Shelton is a father of three.

(SD-Agencies)