TV legend Des O’Connor has died at the age of 88.
The small screen icon was admitted to hospital last week after he fell at his home Buckinghamshire.
He had been reportedly recovering well but his condition deteriorated yesterday evening.
A representative for Des said that he passed away 'peacefully' in his sleep.
The star will be remembered for his lengthy television career, which saw him host the likes of Countdown and Take Your Pick.
His agent said in a statement: “It is with great sorrow that I confirm that Des O'Connor passed away yesterday (Saturday 14 November).
"He had been admitted to hospital just over a week ago, following a fall at his home in Buckinghamshire. He was recovering well and had been in great spirits, visited by his family - in accordance with hospital lockdown regulations - and looking forward to going home. Unfortunately yesterday evening his condition suddenly deteriorated and he drifted peacefully away in his sleep.
"Des, who was 88, was so well loved by absolutely everyone. He was a joy to work with - he was talented, fun, positive, enthusiastic, kind and a total professional.
“He loved life, and considered enthusiasm almost as important as oxygen. He adored his family - they were everything to him. He is survived by his wife Jodie, their son Adam and his four daughters, Karin, TJ, Samantha and Kristina. Jodie's world is shattered, she and Adam and Des's daughters are hurting more than you could possibly imagine.
"Des was the ultimate entertainer. He loved being on stage - entertaining a live audience. He always said the sound of laughter was like the sound of heavenly music. He had a fabulous international TV career, presenting his own prime-time TV shows for over 45 years. On stage he starred at almost every leading venue throughout the world.”
