Michael paid his final visit to Walford's market to surprise the Olivier award winning actor who had joined the soap on a regular basis in 1999.
Actor John Nettles and comedian Jim Davidson are among those paying tribute.

Michael surprised the Surrey batsman and wicketkeeper during a game of golf at the Royal Automobile Club in Epsom.
Alec - who is the most capped English cricketer of all time - was greeted by guests that included lyricist Sir Tim Rice, former footballer Sir Bobby Robson and fellow cricketer Geoffrey Boycott.