Stand-up comedian Jethro, who has been performing comedy for over 50 years, has announced he is to stop touring from the end of the year.

The 72 year-old Cornish star - real name Geoffrey Rowe - has few TV credits to his name, however has sold over 4 million DVDs across his career thanks to a loyal fan following.

He made the announcement on his Facebook page today.

Writing to his 85,000 fans on the platform, he said: "So I think it's time to hang up my Mic, It's been a hard decision, But my memory has made it easier for me."

Explaining further, he added: "I will honour all my dates booked in, but as of the end of December I will no longer be working my theatre tours."

Signing off, he finished with [sic]: "I great big thank you to everyone that has come to see me over the last 50 years, I'm sure I enjoyed you're company more than you enjoyed mine."

Jethro, who lives in Lewdown, near Dartmoor to the west of Devon, used to appear regularly on TV shows hosted by Des O'Connor, and his other TV credits include the 2001 Royal Variety Performance and Jim Davidson's Generation Game, however he has mainly build his fan base via live shows and VHS and DVD sales.

Fans have been quick to respond to his post, and encourage him to continue. Comments include "thank you for giving us so many laughs" and "So sad, but you have made so many people laugh, you are a legend. Enjoy you retirement."

Below is a clip from one of Jethro's DVDs: