BBC broadcaster Terry Wogan succumbs to cancer at 77

Veteran BBC broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan has died at the age of 77, following a "short but brave" battle with cancer.

The family of the Limerick-born television presenter, who celebrated 50 years in broadcasting this year, said in a statement that "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," the Guardian reported.

The BBC director general Tony Hall said that Wogan, who was knighted in 2005, "truly was a national treasure."

Celebrities and fellow presenters also paid tribute on social media, with BBC Daily Politics presenter Andrew Neil calling him a "wonderful man" and former BBC executive Danny Cohen saying he was a "legendary broadcaster, gentleman, passionate fundraiser."

Prime Minister David Cameron also paid tribute to Wogan, who charmed the nation with his velvety voice on radio and television, tweeting "My thoughts are with Terry Wogan's family. Britain has lost a huge talent - someone millions came to feel was their own special friend."

He added, "I grew up listening to him on the radio and watching him on tv. His charm and wit always made me smile."

Piers Morgan described Wogan as "one of the greatest broadcasters who ever lived," while DJ Tony Blackburn wrote: "I can hardly believe my old friend Sir Terry Wogan has died. RIP Terry and thanks for being a friend.