THE owners of a Malvern restaurant have remembered with affection actor Simon MacCorkindale, who died last Thursday after a four year battle with cancer .

Peter Brown of Pepper and Oz in Abbey Road, said: "Simon was one of our earliest customers when he starred in an Agatha Christie play soon after we opened in 2007. He frequented us discreetly most days and was the epitome of a perfect gentleman and customer.

"When the production celebrated its 100th night, he hired the restaurant after the show for a private party of the cast and was always most complimentary about the food and service.

"He was a frequent visitor to Malvern, whether starring in theatre productions or showing his horses at the Malvern Showground.

"He always rang us in advance and was the most delightful customer together with his wife, Susan, to whom our sincerest condolences go.

"Simon, it was a real pleasure to have met you and served you over the last three and a half years."