Not-so-tall stories help bring CBE for veteran comic Ronnie Corbett

The veteran funnyman, who turned 81 this month, is famous for his rambling monologues on the popular sketch show The Two Ronnies, in which he performed alongside long-time comedy partner Ronnie Barker.

For more than 16 years the duo graced the small screen together, offering up character comedy, word play and musical skits.

At just 5ft 1in, Corbett has always been as well-known for his tiny stature as for his solo contributions on the hit show, where he would address the camera with a typically meandering comic tale from his trademark armchair.

Born in Edinburgh in 1930, the son of a baker, Corbett first became involved in amateur dramatics before being called up for National Service with the RAF.

He later moved to London and secured his first film and TV roles in the 1950s – but his big break came when he was spotted by David Frost while performing at the Mayfair nightclub Winston’s.

Frost gave him a role on his new programme, the celebrated Frost Report, where Corbett appeared in satirical sketches alongside other fresh British talent including John Cleese and Barker.

Having bonded with his namesake, they began working together and The Two Ronnies first aired in 1971 – running until 1987. Both Corbett and Barker – who died in 2005 –received OBEs in 1978.

Corbett also hit sitcom success in the BBC show Sorry! and was reunited with Barker for a final swansong in The Two Ronnies Sketchbook in 2005.

Latterly, the entertainer has worked with an array of comics including Ricky Gervais and Peter Kay, and starred on shows including Little Britain. He has long supported charities including Comic Relief and the RNLI.