Broadcaster Derek Davis has passed away at aged 67 after a short illness.
The Co.Down man began his TV career with ABC and BBC Northern Ireland before moving to RTÉ.
He hosted the Rose of Tralee on two occasions and later presented Out of The Blue and a radio show A Question of Food.
Passed away: TV legend Derek Davis passed away this morning | VIPIRELAND.COM
Director General of RTÉ, Noel Curran has led the tributes.
“Derek Davis was a hugely popular man, both with audiences and with his colleagues in RTÉ,
“He was one of the first presenters I worked with as a television director and he was always generous with his time and advice, then and after,
“He was full of humour and warmth and was one of the most versatile presenters RTÉ has seen,” he said.Â
Tributes: Tributes have been flooding in for the TV broadcaster | VIPIRELAND.COM
A number of RTÉ colleagues have expressed their sadness at his passing as tributes pour in on social media.
“Sad news reaching us in the last few minutes that Derek Davis has passed away earlier this morning. RIP Derek,” Sean O Rourke tweeted.Â
“RIP. To me he had the warmth, brightness and openness of summer. Condolences to his family. So sad to hear his untimely passing,” Joe Duffy said.Â
“Derek Davis RIP. My dear old mate of 49 years. A unique man of all the talents and huge generosity,” Tom McGurk tweeted.Â
Remembered: Derek Davis has been fondly remebered by former colleagues at RTE | VIPIRELAND.COM
Aonghus McNally also reflected what others were saying and took to twitter to express his sadness.
“I am so sad to hear of the death of Derek Davis. One of the finest wordsmiths I ever worked with. My sympathies to his wonderful family,” he said.
