Lorraine Kelly has led tributes to former BBC presenter Michael Barratt following the news that he's passed away.
His family announced earlier today that Michael – who is best known for fronting current affairs show Nationwide – had died in a hospice on Sunday morning (July 10) at the age of 94.
The news was shared by his son Olly Barratt, who said: "We're very sad to report that our lovely Dad/Husband/Mike/Michael Barratt died this morning. He was 94."
He further commented in a tweet: "He spent his final days being cared for at the wonderful Thames Hospice in Berkshire, surrounded by his family. A life lived to the full."
Michael had a lengthy career in broadcasting, having presented Panorama and Songs of Praise among other shows. He had also worked for Thames TV's Reporting London.
However, he is best known to BBC viewers for having been the host of current affairs programme Nationwide from 1969 to 1977 – with him the original presenter of the popular show.
The news of his death has prompted many tributes, with ITV presenter Lorraine, 62, writing in response to Olly's tweet: "Sad to hear of the death of your dad. Class act."
Journalist and broadcast Simon McCoy, 60, said: "Such sad news. The nicest of men who was interested in things going on in the world right up until the end. My love to the family."
"A brilliant broadcaster and a lovely man. I considered it a priviledge to work with him on BBC Nationwide where he taught so many of us so much," said a former colleague on Twitter.
Another tribute to Michael read: "I had the chance to work with him (as cameraman) on various filming assignments. A total professional and good fun to be with too."
Another social media user had said in response to the news earlier: "A TV legend but more importantly a really decent, warm and fascinating man. It was an honour to meet him."
Others reminisced over their childhoods, with one person tweeting: "I remember Nationwide being a staple of the weekly viewing schedule for our family. Your dad was a pioneer."
"Your father was there throughout my youth on [TV] radiating experience and honesty," said another. A third said: "Such a familiar, and warm, presence throughout my childhood."
"Your Dad was a brilliant familiar face when I was a child. To me he was Mr. Nationwide. Kind thoughts to you and yours," tweeted another person in response to the news earlier.
Michael's son Olly had included the link to a JustGiving page in the tweet announcing his passing this morning. He said that the fundraising initiative will support Thames Hospice.
