There are two ways to exit a burning building. The way you were taught in fire drill - and Tony Van Silva's way.

Millions of TV viewers will see Tony, of Hove, leap through a plate glass window tonight as a petrol bomb explodes behind him.

Stuntman Tony, 51, recorded the breathtaking scene for BBC1's police drama Merseybeat as stunt-double for Kenneth MacDonald.

Mr MacDonald, best known for his role as Mike the barman in Only Fools And Horses, died from a heart attack last week, aged 50.

A former professional wrestler, Tony has been the unsung hero of the big and small screens for 15 years, risking his neck for famous names in everything from Batman to Brookside.

He said: "We recorded this scene in Widnes in February.

"I was very upset when I heard Ken had died because we struck up quite a friendship during the shooting.

"His dad was a wrestler too and we swapped stories as they set up the stunts."

Tony had even asked Kenneth if he could have a walk-on part alongside Rodney and Del in any future episodes of the popular sitcom.

He said: "For the scene, Ken's character had got himself into some sort of scrape and someone had thrown a petrol bomb through his letter box.

"It cut to me as the bomb exploded and I had to jump through the window in a fireball.

"They create the flames by pumping a cannon of nitrogen over hot coals.

"I was padded up and my hands and face were covered in protective gel but you could still feel the heat, it was kind of like a bee sting.

"All you have on your mind is you want to get it right first time. Afterwards, you're glad it's over."

Tony keeps in shape by going to the gym three times a week, practising karate and running.

He said: "It's a great job.

"I've been in loads of films and on TV programmes and met all kinds of different people but I don't have to worry about fame because no one recognises me."

Merseybeat is on BBC1 tonight at 8.30pm.