The BBC children’s show’s longest-serving presenter, appearing for more than 12 years, and was often seen with his dog Shep by his side.
A family statement said he had “endured and suffered from” Alzheimer’s disease.
“Whilst he will be greatly missed by his wife, family and many friends his release from continuing ill health must be counted as a blessing,” it said.
“His many escapades with his faithful companion Shep, during his time with Blue Peter, will live on in many peoples memories. That is how his family would like him remembered.”
He was the action man of Blue Peter. Here’s him climbing Nelson’s Column with no safety equipment:
That overhang of jury-rigged ladders is quite something. He held the freefall parachute height record for a UK civilian for a while - 25,000 feet iirc.
