Paul Whitehouse [BBC]

ACTOR and comedian Paul Whitehouse fought off a mugger outside Sainsbury’s in Essex Road.

In a post online this week, Mr Whitehouse’s wife, Dr Mine Conkbayir, shared news that the Welsh comedian had been withdrawing cash outside the shop when he was approached and attacked.

She added that the star had “fought back” and retrieved his card, and that the mugger “scuttled off empty-handed”.

But she said after returning from the ordeal, her husband was notably frustrated and urged his followers to “stay vigilant” in Islington.

Dr Conkbayir said: “Well, a horrid start to the weekend, would be an understatement.

“So, please, everyone – I don’t mean to patronise, but please be super vigilant out there.”

The 68-year-old is best known for The Fast Show and his Gone Fishing television show with friend and fellow comedian Bob Mortimer.