Blue Peter Presenter and RAF Veteran John Noakes Dies

Former Blue Peter host John Noakes has died aged 83, a family friend has announced.

His family said he died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday morning and that they hoped Noakes would be remembered for "his many escapades with his faithful companion Shep" during his time on the TV show.

After training as an aircraft engine fitter with the RAF and working for the aircraft company BOAC, Noakes went to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and began a career in theatre and television.

He had been suffering from Alzheimer's.

Family friend Wendy Downes said in a statement:

"John Noakes died peacefully on Sunday morning, May 28. He had endured and suffered from Alzheimer's over recent years and whilst he will be greatly missed by his wife, family and many friends, his release from continuing ill health must be counted as a blessing."

Noakes was Blue Peter's longest-serving presenter.

The Yorkshire-born star worked on the children's show for 12-and-a-half years in the 1960s and 1970s, when he developed a reputation as the show's action man.

He was also known for his partnership with canine stars of the programme, Patch, the first Blue Peter dog Petra's puppy, and the border collie Shep, who inspired Noakes's catchphrase: "Get down, Shep!"