Former Blue Peter presenters were among the first stars to pay tribute to show “legend” John Noakes who died peacefully in his sleep.

The 83-year-old was the programme’s longest serving presenter.

Konnie Huq took to Twitter to express her sorrow, writing: “He was a legend. So sad…”.

Anthea Turner called the presenter a “Blue Peter favourite”, and Zoe Salmon, who presented the show between 2004 and 2008, tweeted:

Katy Hill credited Noakes for her desire to present the children’s show.

Former presenter turned actress and author Janet Ellis, said:

As well as former Blue Peter presenters, others who fondly remembered Noakes were quick to pay tribute.

Responding to a tweet referring to the TV star as “special to everyone of a certain age in this country”, comedian Omid Djalili, tweeted: “Well said. John Noakes meant so much to so many of us. Such a sad day.”