ACTOR Richard Wilson has pulled out of Frinton Summer Theatre after suffering a heart attack.

The 80-year-old was to reprise his role as Victor Meldrew on Sunday in a special Gala Night.

But on Thursday he suffered a heart attack in London and is said to be in a stable condition.

Box Office Manager Abby Head said the theatre staff and management wished their Patron “a speedy recovery”.

The actor, best known for his role as grumpy pensioner Victor Meldrew in the BBC Comedy ‘One Foot in the Grave’, has been a regular feature of the festival, which he has described as a “breeding ground for future stars.”

Abby said she hoped that the Scottish-born actor would recover for a performace in Frinton at a later date. It was too late to arrange something for this Sunday in its place.

“It was a big shock to us when we found out yesterday (Thursday) morning. I had to ring 200 people,” he said.

But the show will go on for the rest of the Summer Theatre with Match Made in Heaven running tonight and tomorrow (Saturday).

Next week, from Tuesday to Saturday is Hay Fever, followed by I Love, You're Perfect, Now Change during August 23-27.

The summer theatre ends its 2016 run on Sunday August 28 with a Music Night with jazz funk band Crinkle Cuts at the Lock and Barrel pub.

After playing Victor Meldrew in Frinton, Richard Wilson was to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

The show's promoters, Assembly, confirmed the cancellation of the production.

In a statement, they said: "Due to ill health, Richard Wilson has taken the decision, to take some time out.

"He is sorry to have to disappoint those hoping to see him in Edinburgh.

"We hope to plan further shows for later in the year."