Sir Terry Wogan dies at 77 following cancer battle

File photo dated 18/06/12 of veteran broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan, who has died aged 77 following a short illness. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday January 31, 2016. See PA story DEATH Wogan. Photo credit should read: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

Sir Terry Wogan has died aged 77 after suffering from cancer, the BBC has announced.

The veteran broadcaster, known for his velvety voice on radio and television, was one of the UK and Ireland’s best known stars.

A statement from his family said Sir Terry died surrounded by his family.

They said: “Sir Terry Wogan died today after a short but brave battle with cancer.

File photo dated 21/06/14 of veteran broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan with Lady Wogan at Royal Ascot, as he has died aged 77 following a short illness. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Issue date: Sunday January 31, 2016. See PA story DEATH Wogan. Photo credit should read: Steve Parsons/PA Wire

“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.”

BBC director general Tony Hall said: “Terry truly was a national treasure.”

He said: “Terry truly was a national treasure. Today we’ve lost a wonderful friend. He was a lovely, lovely man and our thoughts are with his wife and family.

“For 50 years Sir Terry graced our screens and airwaves. His warmth, wit and geniality meant that for millions he was a part of the family.

“Wake up to Wogan was for millions of Radio 2 listeners the very best way to start the day. For decades he’s been such a huge part of the BBC on television and radio and leaves so many wonderful memories.

“At the centre of Children In Need since its beginning he raised hundreds of millions of pounds and changed so many lives for the better. He leaves a remarkable legacy.”

Prime Minister David Cameron tweeted: “My thoughts are with Terry Wogan’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.”

Just last November, Sir Terry was forced to pull out of presenting Children In Need at the last minute due to health issues.

Helen Boaden, director at BBC Radio, said: “Sir Terry was a radio legend. For decades, he gave great pleasure to radio listeners with his wit, warmth and inimitable humour. He was an extraordinary broadcaster but also incredibly good fun, and will be sorely missed.”

Bob Shennan, controller at Radio 2, said: “As the host of Wake Up To Wogan, Terry established himself as one of the greatest and most popular radio hosts this country has ever heard.

“We were brightened by his wonderful personality and charm as he woke us up every weekday morning, becoming an essential and much-loved part of our lives.

“His millions of listeners adored him, as did his whole Radio 2 family. We will miss him enormously and our thoughts at this very sad time are with Helen and all the family.”