Bamber Gascoigne has died aged 87.
Bamber Gascoigne was the first host of University Challenge
The former 'University Challenge' host - who was the original quiz master when the show first aired between 1962 and 1987 - died at his home in Richmond-upon-Thames, London on Tuesday (08.02.22).
His representatives have confirmed he passed away after a short illness, and he is survived by Christina, his wife of more than 50 years.
Bamber was the man behind many of University Challenge's famous catchphrases, including "Fingers on buzzers", "I'll have to hurry you" and "Your starter for 10".
He was awarded with a CBE - Commander of the Order of the British Empire - for services to the arts in the Queen's 2018 Birthday Honours.
He also penned a series of books - including 1972's satirical novel 'Mugatroyd's Empire' - and appeared in documentaries.
On major project included 'The Christians', which was a 13-hour TV documentary made for Granada - and broadcast on ITV - along with a companion book.
He presented the likes of 1987's 'Victorian Values' and 1990's 'The Great Moghuls'.
Meanwhile, his West Horsley Place home is used as the location of the fictional haunted Button House in BBC comedy 'Ghosts'.
Fans have paid tribute to the TV legend and recalled memories of watching him on screen.
One tweeted: "Such sad news. A quiz show icon. Started watching UC in the mid 60s stil watch it today. RIP Bamber #yourstarterforten (sic)"
Another said: "Bamber Gascoigne of University Challenge has died. RIP, your starter for 10 awaits you in the heavens."
And a different fan wrote: "Very sad news that Bamber Gascoigne has died. He was the original presenter of University Challenge and had such a distinctive voice. Always fair to the students."
While another added: "I just heard the news. So sad. He was such a key part of my childhood. RIP #BamberGascoigne. Thoughts with his family and loved ones."