National treasure Sir Terry Wogan has died two months after pulling out of a Kent book festival for health reasons.

The veteran BBC broadcaster fought a "short but brave battle with cancer", his family said today.

In a statement, they added: "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."

Sir Terry, 77, cancelled an appearance at Folkestone Book Week in November for health reasons, a week after he was forced to pull out of hosting Children in Need.

Born in Limerick, he had a 50-year career on television and radio, including presenting Wake up to Wogan on BBC Radio 2 and the Wogan chat show.

He was also the voice of Eurovision for many years and had been involved in Children in Need since it began.

Kmfm presenter and friend Tony Blackburn tweeted: "I can hardly believe my old friend Sir Terry Wogan has died. RIP Terry and thanks for being a friend."

BBC director general Tony Hall added: "Terry truly was a national treasure."