There’s very sad news this morning in the Daily Mirror as it’s been announced that children’s TV entertainer and animal expert Terry Nutkins has died aged 66.

He passed away at his home in Scotland yesterday, having lost his fight to beat leukemia.

Terry’s agent John Miles broke the sad news, saying, “He had fought for about nine months or so with acute leukemia.

“He was an absolutely lovely guy and just loved animals, and he was never happier than when he was with animals.

“We will all miss him very, very much.”

Messages of condolence flooded Twitter last night as celebrities and fans alike remembered Terry, who of course fronted kids’ shows Animal Magic and Really Wild Show…

A tweet from Terry’s former colleague Phillip Schofield, who wrote, “So sad to hear of the death of Terry Nutkins. I worked with him often in my ‘broom cupboard’ days.

“A delightful man & passionate naturalist.”

Comedian Ricky Gervais added, “RIP Terry Nutkins. Animal lover and thoroughly nice chap.”

TV presenter Dawn Porter said, “Terry Nutkins. Total legend. I’m sure he has gone to have more fun somewhere else #RIP”

And Ben Fogle tweeted, “Very sad to hear the sad passing of Terry Nutkins. He was one of my childhood inspirations.”

Here’s a reminder of a BBC documentary from 2010 which detailed a day in the life of Terry.

The show’s YouTube comment adds, “What a legend, what a great privilege to meet him and make a show with him, what a sad loss.

(The documentary was presented by Cathy MacDonald and broadcast on BBC ALBA, so there are some presenter links in Scots Gaelic.)

RIP Terry…