Yates was responsible for one of the most famous sequences in cinema, actor Steve McQueen's car chase in the 1968 police thriller ''Bullitt.'' -AFP File Photo

LONDON: British filmmaker Peter Yates, whose eclectic output included ''Bullitt'' and ''Breaking Away,'' has died at the age of 81.

A statement from Yates' agent, Judy Daish, said he died Sunday in London after an illness.

Yates was responsible for one of the most famous sequences in cinema, actor Steve McQueen's Ford Mustang car chase through the hilly streets of San Francisco, in the 1968 police thriller ''Bullitt.''

He was nominated for four Academy Awards, two as director and two as producer, for cycling tale ''Breaking Away'' and backstage drama ''The Dresser.''

He is survived by his wife, Virginia Pope, a son and a daughter. Monday's statement said a private family funeral would be held.