London, Dec 16 (IANS): Actor Peter O'Toole, best known for his role in "Lawrence Of Arabia", passed away following a long illness. He was 81.

Peter died Dec 14 at the Wellington Hospital here, reports dailymail.co.uk

"He was one of a kind in the very best sense and a giant in his field," his agent Steve Kenis said.

Actress Kate O’Toole, his daughter, said that their "family is very appreciative and completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of real love and affection".

"In due course there will be a memorial filled with song and good cheer, as he would have wished," Kate added.

Peter, who suffered from ill health since long, announced in July 2012 that he was retiring from acting.

The actor rose to fame with "Lawrence Of Arabia" in 1962. In a career spanning over six decades, Peter received Oscar nominations for his roles in "Becket" (1964), "How to Steal a Million" (1966), "The Lion in Winter" (1968), "Goodbye, Mr. Chips" (1969), "The Ruling Class" (1972), "The Stunt Man" (1980), "My Favorite Year" (1982) and "Venus" (2006).

Tributes to Peter were led by Prime Minister David Cameron, who declared that "Lawrence Of Arabia" was his "favourite film", and called Peter's performance "stunning".