Noel Edmonds has dubbed his late friend Keith Chegwin has "an extraordinary showman".

Noel Edmonds

Noel Edmonds

The legendary presenter - who is best known for presenting the children's game show 'Cheggers Plays Pop' - passed away surrounded by his family at his home on Monday (11.12.17) following a long-term battle with a progressive lung condition.

And now Noel - who starred alongside Keith in 'Multi-Coloured Swap Shop' and considers the legend as his "first real telly chum" - has paid tribute to the star.

In a statement, the 68-year-old presenter said: "I've lost my first real telly chum and I'm certain I'm not alone in shedding tears for a true telly legend.

"He was an extraordinary showman capable of entertaining a vast crowd of excited children during the long periods between his live contributions to the show.

"I never saw Keith flustered or lost for words. In fact now I think about it I never saw him upset or angry. I never heard Cheggers say a bad word about anyone.

"Like all true professionals he possessed the knack of reinventing himself time and time again.

"He was a very generous performer. Keith was indeed larger than life but he never stole the spotlight. He was an all-round entertainer - a very funny comedian and accomplished musician and singer.

"He was at his best on location, with a film crew chasing him and a member of the public about to be surprised on their doorstep.

"The greatest achievement for any TV performer is for the viewers to regard you as a friend and today millions will be grateful for Keith's contribution to their childhood memories and like me they will mourn the passing of a friend."

Keith's passing was confirmed by his family - including two children Rose, whom he has with his ex-wife Maggie Philbin, and Ted, whom he has with his wife Maria - in a statement released earlier on Monday.

It read: "We are heartbroken to share the news that Keith Chegwin sadly passed away following a long-term battle with a progressive lung condition, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which rapidly worsened towards the end of this year. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Severn Hospice for the kindness, support and care they have shown us all over the last few weeks.

"Keith was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle and friend. We would respectfully ask to be left to mourn his passing in private."

Tagged in