GREENOCK actor Richard Wilson has revealed how he originally turned down his iconic role as cantankerous Victor Meldrew.

The star, 80, made his name playing the character in the BBC’s evergreen sitcom One Foot In The Grave but he said he thought he was too young for the part.

Richard said: “I was in my early 50s and Victor was 60.

“I think Les Dawson was being considered. A very funny man but I don’t know if he could have played Victor.”

Richard is resurrecting Victor for a performance at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe.