TRIBUTES have been paid to Sir Ken Dodd, who has died at the age of 90.

The Liverpool comedy legend, famous for his stand-up shows, as well as his Diddy Men and tickling stick, died on Sunday at his home in Knotty Ash, just days after leaving hospital.

Worcestershire residents have been sharing their memories of seeing his performances in the county, as well as a special visit in May 1969, when he opened the Blackfriars Square development - the predecessor to Crowngate Shopping Centre.

The Worcester Evening News called the visit 'Doddy Day' when special Doddy painting, drawings and treasure trail competitions were run.

The paper reported that the event was "chaotic" as hundreds turned up, with crowds jostling to see the comedian.

During the visit Sir Ken also spoke to dignitaries at a luncheon at the Star Hotel to mark the centre's opening, where he joked: "I am mayor of Knotty Ash, but I never got a chain. They let me run loose."

On Facebook, Vonnie Carter wrote: "I won a competition when he opened Blackfriars and he presented me with an award.

"I was about nine so unfortunately can’t remember what the prize was - think it was paints and crayons."

Hilary Long said: "Saw him a couple of times in pantomime as a child."

Jakki Edwards said: "When he opened Blackfriars market. I was just a child and he trod on my foot. Sadly, I kicked him. Sorry, Sir Ken."

And Jean Evans added: "Rip. Saw him at Malvern the show went on and on - great performer."

Speaking outside their home, where floral tributes and tickle sticks were left outside, Lady Anne Dodd said she had “lost a most wonderful husband”.

And Dawn French, David Walliams and Ant and Dec were among those who paid tribute, with Sir Paul McCartney writing he had “tears of sadness”.