Former Blue Peter presenters were among the first stars to pay tribute to show “legend” John Noakes who died peacefully in his sleep.
The 83-year-old was the programme’s longest serving presenter.
Konnie Huq took to Twitter to express her sorrow, writing: “He was a legend. So sad…”.
John Noakes. Best Blue Peter presenter ever. RIP. So sad. pic.twitter.com/LRMjhI5AeB
— Konnie Huq (@Konnie_Huq) May 29, 2017
Anthea Turner called the presenter a “Blue Peter favourite”, and Zoe Salmon, who presented the show between 2004 and 2008, tweeted:
I am deeply saddened to hear about John Noakes, a Blue Peter legend who will live on in our hearts ??Privileged to have met him #JohnNoakes
— Official Zoe Salmon (@Zoe_Salmon) May 29, 2017
Katy Hill credited Noakes for her desire to present the children’s show.
SADDEST news about the legendary John Noakes who inspired me to want to present Blue Peter & do EVERYTHING he did. THE BEST! #johnnoakes
— Katy Hill (@KatyHillTV) May 29, 2017
Former presenter turned actress and author Janet Ellis, said:
The best,bravest,funniest BP presenter. If we didn't walk in John Noakes' shadow it's because he shone the light for https://t.co/b1RPSa7zST
— janetellis (@missjanetellis) May 29, 2017
As well as former Blue Peter presenters, others who fondly remembered Noakes were quick to pay tribute.
Responding to a tweet referring to the TV star as “special to everyone of a certain age in this country”, comedian Omid Djalili, tweeted: “Well said. John Noakes meant so much to so many of us. Such a sad day.”