Former BBC Breakfast presenter Bill Turnbull dies at the age of 66

Former BBC Breakfast presenter Bill Turnbull has died at the age of 66.

He hosted the show for 15 years, in both London and later Salford, and also fronted Songs of Praise and game show Think Tank.

In 2018, he announced he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

“Bill will be remembered by many as a remarkable broadcaster who brought warmth and humour into people’s homes,” his family said.

“Following a challenging and committed fight against prostate cancer, Bill passed away peacefully at his home in Suffolk surrounded by his family on Wednesday 31st August.

“He was resolutely positive and was hugely buoyed by the support he received from friends, colleagues and messages from people wishing him luck. It was a great comfort to Bill that so many more men are now testing earlier for this disease.

“Bill was a wonderful husband and father to his three children; his family and friends will miss how he always made them laugh, and the generosity and love he shared with those around him,” they said, adding he was a devoted Wycombe Wanderers fan and “an ever-aspiring beekeeper”.

During his time on BBC Breakfast, he presented alongside Sian Williams, Susanna Reid, Kate Silverton, Natasha Kaplinsky and Louise Minchin.

There will be a special programme on BBC Breakfast this Friday to remember him.

BBC Director-General Tim Davie called Turnbull “a much-loved and respected broadcaster and journalist – not just by viewers but by all those lucky enough to have worked with him”.

“He always struck the right tone, no matter what the story. Warm, wise, professional and caring, he will be much missed by us all,” he said.