Tributes are being paid to broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan, who passed away at the age of 77
Sir Terry, who was a father-of-four, had worked in the TV and radio industry for more than 50 years.
A family statement confirmed the news yesterday: “Sir Terry Wogan died today after a short but brave battle with cancer. He passed away surrounded by his family.
“While we understand he will be missed by many, the family ask that their privacy is respected at this time.”
Wogan, best known for his Radio 2 breakfast show, was also the voice of the Eurovision Song Contest and the face of Children In Need for 35 years.
Sir Terry last appeared on the airwaves at the beginning of November, when he hosted a show for Radio 2.
Later that month, he pulled out of hosting Children In Need for health reasons, the first time he missed the show since it began.
The charity showcase raises money to help change the lives of disadvantaged children and young people.
Paying tribute fellow presenter Sir Bruce Forsyth said: “Terry was such a great broadcaster and part of our lives for so many years. He will be much missed.”
Many more took to twitter to pay their respects including the Prime Minister David Cameron who said: “My thoughts are with Terry Wigan’s family. Britain has lost a huge talent – someone millions came to feel was their own special friend.
“I grew up listening to him on the radio and watching him on TV. His charm and wit always made me smile.”
Sir Terry lived for more than 40 years with his wife, Lady Helen, in the Buckinghamshire village of Taplow.
Together they had four children, Mark, Katherine, Alan and Vanessa.
Vanessa, who was the first born, died of a heart condition aged only three weeks.
He was the patron of the Thames Valley Adventure Playground in Taplow, a centre for disabled children and adults.