BBC Radio 2 presenter Reverend Ruth Scott has died aged 60.
The host, who was one of the first female priests in the Church of England, “died peacefully” on Wednesday night, the radio station confirmed.
In a statement, it said: “Ruth died peacefully in Southampton General Hospital on Wednesday evening with her husband and daughter present.”
Station head Lewis Carnie paid tribute to Scott on Twitter, writing: “Reverend Ruth Scott was much loved amongst the Radio 2 family. Working with both Sir Terry Wogan and Chris Evans, her Pause for Thought reflections were enjoyed by millions of listeners to the Breakfast Show over the years.
“Our thoughts are with Ruth’s family at this sad time.”
Sara Cox also paid her respects to Scott, writing: “This is so sad. Rest in peace Ruth. She had a light in her eyes and such strength yet was so gentle. Sending my love to her husband, kids and the whole family.”
Reverend Kate Bottley paid tribute on Pause For Thought on Zoe Ball’s breakfast show, saying: “Christians – and vicars in particular – can often be accused of not living in the real world.
“That couldn’t be said of Ruth Scott. She not only lived in the real world – she wanted to change it.
“Her congregations were lucky – Ruth wasn’t your typical vicar – few can claim to have also trained as a magician and fire eater.”
Reverend Scott recently told Chris Evans in a broadcast from her hospital bed that she had just weeks to live.
The host, who had been having cancer treatment for two years, told Evans: “I’ve got to accept the fact that I’m dying.
“I’m not frightened. I’ve had the most fantastic life. I just wish that it had been longer.”
Additional reporting by PA
