Oscar-winning writer and actor Colin Welland dies aged 81 after battle with Alzheimer's

Passed away: Actor and writer Colin Welland has died aged 81
Rex
Jennifer Ruby3 November 2015
The Weekender

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British actor and writer Colin Welland has died aged 81 after suffering from Alzheimer's.

The Lancashire-born star, who won an Oscar in 1982 for the Chariots of Fire screenplay, died peacefully in his sleep on Monday, his family have confirmed.

In a family statement released via his literary agent Anthony Jones, they have said:

“Colin will be desperately missed by his family and friends.

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"Alzheimer's is a cruel illness and there have been difficult times, but in the end Colin died peacefully in his sleep.

"We are proud of Colin's many achievements during his life, but most of all he will be missed as a loving and generous friend, husband, father and granddad."

Welland, who had four children and six grandchildren, is most recognisable for his roles in Kes and TV drama Z-Cars.

He later put acting on the backburner to concentrate on screenwriting and penned a number of Hollywood films including Yanks and Twice in a Lifetime.

During his Oscar acceptance speech, Welland famously lifted his trophy above his head and shouted: "The British are coming!"

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