British actor Peter Vaughan, best known for roles in Game of Thrones and Porridge, dies aged 93

British actor Peter Vaughan has died aged 93.

Vaughan was best known for his roles in Porridge and Game of Thrones and died on Tuesday morning surrounded by his family, according to his agent.

"This is to confirm that very sadly Peter Vaughan passed away at approximately 10.30 this morning. He died peacefully with his family around him," Sally Long-Innes said.

Vaughan had a career in theatre, television and film spanning for than 75 years, and working alongside Sir Anthony Hopkins, Frank Sinatra and Ronnie Barker.

Partially sighted in real life, he played blind maester Aemon Targaryen in the hit HBO series Game of Thrones for five years, but was perhaps best known for his portrayal of Harry Grout in the sitcom Porridge.

He also starred in Our Friends in the North in the 1990s, which was nominated for a BAFTA television award.

The character actor had been a recognisable figure on British television screens since the 1950s, but his appearance in the fantasy epic over five years from 2011 won him global fans.

Born on April 4, 1923, he was married to actress Billie Whitelaw for 12 years. He is survived by his second wife, actress Lillias Walker.