Kenny Baker

A famous Preston resident has passed away aged 81.

Kenny Baker, who played R2-D2 in Star Wars, has died after a long illness.

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Baker, who was 3’8″, appeared in the Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi – as well as the 1999 to 2005 Star Wars films.

He lived in Ashton-on-Ribble for decades and was regularly spotted around the city.

Read more: Prestonians pay tribute to Kenny Baker

Kenny’s home in Ashton-on-Ribble Pic: Tony Worrall

Baker also appeared in a number of other much-loved films in the 1980s, including The Goodies, Time Bandits and Flash Gordon.

Read more: Sixteen excellent things Preston gave the world

His niece Abigail Shield said: “He had problems with his lungs and was often in a wheelchair. He was very poorly for a long time.”

Did you ever meet Kenny? Let us know in the comments below