A Lincolnshire actor described as "special, eccentric and eclectic" has died suddenly after suffering an aneurysm.

Scothern-born Robert Hewis suffered a cerebral haemorrhage in Vienna, Austria, aged 56.

The actor had helped forge a name for Lincolnshire theatre in the 70s and 80s, and later starred alongside Peter O'Toole in Macbeth.

One of his most famous county performances was in the Lincoln Mystery Cycle at the cathedral – a role which involved him unicycling up Steep Hill dressed as the Son of God.

Tributes to Mr Hewis have poured in from loved ones, friends and work colleagues.

Sister-in-law Jayne Hewis, from Saxilby, said: "He was such a character to be around, always showing up unannounced. There will be a huge hole left in many people's lives by his death."

Mr Hewis was discovered by friends at his flat in Vienna on April 13.

He had been a founding member of Great Eastern Stage, a Lincoln-based touring repertory company which ran from 1976 until 1992.

A friend of more than 30 years, Paul Wetherby, of Mill Road, Lincoln, said: "Bob was special, eccentric, eclectic and true. A fine performer who never stopped learning and creating."

Friends from Austria, where Mr Hewis had lived since 1998, said in an obituary: "Bob, you touched us all with your spirit, light and charisma. You have left behind a huge impression and a lasting legacy of memories."

A music service will be held at St Germain's Church in Scothern at 11am on Monday for well wishers in the UK.

For more tributes to Bob Hewis, see Tuesday's Echo.