Legendary television broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan has died at the age of 77 following a short illness. 

Limerick-born Wogan enjoyed a television and radio career spanning 50-years, but sadly died today after a brief battle with cancer. An official statement reads:

"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 BBC's director general Tony Hall said: "Terry truly was a national treasure."

BBC Radio 2 controller Bob Shennan said: "As the host of Wake up to Wogan, 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."

Britain's Prime Minister David Cameron shared a few tweets remembering Sir Terry: "My thoughts are with Terry Wogan's family. Britain has lost a huge talent - someone millions came to feel was their own special friend. I grew up listening to him on the radio and watching him on tv. His charm and wit always made me smile."

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