The Top Gear team has remembered "much-loved" former presenter Sue Baker as an "exceptional motoring journalist" after her death at the age of 75. The writer and TV presenter had been suffering from motor neurone disease (MND) and died at home on Monday with her family around her, a statement on her Twitter confirmed.
It continued: "It is with great sadness, that we share the news of Sue's passing. A doting mother to Ian and Hannah, a loving grandmother to Tom and George, and a wonderful mother-in-law to Lucy.
"She was a talented and prolific writer, a charismatic TV presenter, and a passionate animal lover. She had a life and career that many would envy, but did it all with such grace that she was admired and respected by all who knew her. We know she meant so much to so many. Thank you to everyone who has supported her over the last few years as she battled with MND."
Baker was among the earliest presenters of BBC's Top Gear, joining the original format of the motoring series in 1980. She appeared on the programme until 1991 when she left to continue her work as a journalist, including as The Observer's motoring editor for 13 years.
A statement from the BBC said: "The entire Top Gear team are very saddened to hear about Sue. She was an exceptional motoring journalist and a much-loved former presenter of the show. Our thoughts are with Sue's family and friends at this time."
British racing driver and former Top Gear presenter Tiff Needell tweeted: "Part of my original @BBC-TopGear team and a brilliant car journalist for many years after. RIP Sue."
Richard Aucock, chairman of the Guild of Motoring Writers, said: "Sue was a trail-blazing motoring writer who became famous to millions for her work on Top Gear, but was admired and loved by all in the automotive industry throughout her career. In the 1970s, she was the first female chair of the Guild of Motoring Writers and, later as vice chair, helped open the door to umpteen new writers over the years.
"Above all, she was a lovely person. Warm, welcoming and wonderful company. She will be hugely missed by all, but her name and legacy will live on."
