Jeremy Corbyn just described 5ft tall Ronnie Corbett as a 'giant of British entertainment'

Entertainer Ronnie Corbett, best known for The Two Ronnies sketch show, in which he appeared alongside the comedian Ronnie Barker for 16 years, has died.

Corbett's publicist said in a statement:

Ronnie Corbett CBE, one of the nation's best-loved entertainers, passed away this morning, surrounded by his loving family.

They have asked that their privacy is respected at this very sad time.

Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn has tweeted a tribute to the comedian and took the rare opportunity to make a joke - and it's actually quite a decent one (if it was deliberate).

Gentle reminder: Ronnie Corbett was five feet tall.

However, it was a subject in many of his jokes. Reasonably fitting, if it's intentional. And we really hope it's intentional.

In comparison, David Cameron's words were a little more sombre in tone:

Although it must be said, in reference to the stature of the comedian in the country's heart, both are quite correct.

Corbett was awarded a CBE in the 2012 New Year Honours for his services to charity and the entertainment industry.