Sir Terry Wogan has died at the age of 77.

The BBC has confirmed the TV and radio presenter was suffering from cancer.

A statement on behalf of the Wogan family said: " Sir Terry Wogan died today after a short but brave battle with cancer. 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."

Bob Shennan, Controller of BBC Radio 2 said "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."

Helen Boaden, the Director, 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." Tony Hall, Director General, BBC 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."