Television star Michael Elphick has died in hospital after collapsing, his mother said last night.

Joan Elphick described the 55-year-old former EastEnders star, who died at the weekend, as a "very quiet and very kind" man who had loved his role in Britain's most popular soap.

Elphick, will also be remembered for his TV roles as private eye Boon and freelance journalist Harry - a series filmed in Darlington.

Last night, an EastEnders spokeswoman said: "Everyone in the cast and crew was shocked to hear of Michael's early passing.

"He brought a wealth of talent to the show and will be sadly missed."

Elphick, whose career was dogged by alcoholism, collapsed on Saturday at his home in Willesden Green, north-west London, after complaining of pains and was taken to hospital, but later died.

He was last seen on television screens last year playing the EastEnders character Harry Slater, who was run out of town after it emerged he had raped his niece.

He had an on-off battle with drink and in the early 90s sought help from Alcoholics Anonymous. By 1993, the star admitted he was drinking again, but said it was in moderation and under control.

However in 1998, it was reported he had checked into a clinic. He said at the time: "I used to be drunk by 9pm every night.

"Going on the wagon has made me a bit grumpy, but I'm a wiser man for it."

Elphick once said: "Even when my life has become uncontrollable, as it has at times, it hasn't affected my work. I've goofed on lines, but I've never jeopardised anybody else."

His life has also been tinged with tragedy. His long-term partner, school teacher Julia Alexander, who he met in 1963, died six years ago from cancer.