Earl Cameron, one of the first black actors to forge a successful career in British film and television, has died aged 102, a family friend has said.

Bermuda-born Cameron, who lived with his wife in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, died in his sleep on Friday, Martin Beckett said.

Cameron first appeared on screen in the 1951 film Pool of London, in a rare starring role for a black actor.

His other credits include 1965 Bond movie Thunderball and Doctor Who.

Cameron was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2009 New Year Honours.

Mr Beckett said: “He had sheltered himself because of Covid and had not really been keen on going out, he had chest problems.

“He’s a great character, very spiritual, very modest, we’re going to miss him.

“He would never take on roles that demeaned people of colour… he was often subject of a lot of racial prejudice, but he never really got angry about it. He pitied people that couldn’t accept him.”