Kate Beckinsale has thanked fans for helping to keep the memory of her father Richard Beckinsale alive, 39 years after his death.

The Porridge and Rising Damp actor died of a heart attack on March 19 1979, when he was 31 and Underworld actress Kate was just five.

To mark the anniversary, Kate posted a picture on Instagram of Richard, her mother and herself as a baby.

In the sweet snap, Kate is yawning as she is held by her parents.

The actress, 44, wrote: “We miss him every single day.

“Thank you to everyone who keeps him alive, with love. It’s really helped xxx #march19th.”

Richard Beckinsale played prison inmate Lennie Godber in classic 1970s sitcom Porridge. He was also known for playing medical student Alan Moore in the sitcom Rising Damp.