TRIBUTES have been made across Oxfordshire to broadcaster Sir Terry Wogan, who has died of cancer aged 77. 

The BBC announced the Children in Need host’s death this morning and a family statement said he died after a “short but brave” battle with cancer. 
Sir Terry enjoyed a 50-year career on radio and television, including presenting Wake up to Wogan on BBC Radio 2 as well being the voice of Eurovision for many years. 

Philippa Randels, from Abingdon, who first met Sir Terry in 1986 when he presented her with an award, said it was “devastating news”.

The 57-year-old, who suffers from arthritis, met the broadcaster twice more at The Bookstore in Abingdon in 2009 and 2014.

She said: “It’s very sad, he was an amazing man.

“I used to listen to him everyday driving to work in Oxford when I was struck in traffic – he kept me sane, he was so hilarious.

“When I met him again in 2009 I showed him a photograph of us from before and he wrote on the back of it ‘lovely to see you again’ – he always knew what to say.”

The pair would meet again at another book signing in November 2014, for the final time.

Ms Randels said: “The last time I met him I had just got a new power wheelchair which fitted into my car to allow me to drive.

“Sir Terry had obviously been listening to me as when I left he shouted ‘she’s an astronaut!’

“That will always stay with me – it made me laugh so much.

“He had a lot of time for people and he took time to directly talk and listen to you.”

Sir Terry was a long-time supporter of the Garsington Opera and served on its advisory committee for the best part of 20 years. 

The opera’s founder, the late Leonard Ingrams, knew of Sir Terry’s passion for opera and invited him along. 

Sir Terry would introduce the group’s Opera For All films when they were beamed from Garsington across the country. 

Clare Adams, a member of the management team, said: “We are very sad and shocked to hear the news.

“He was supporter of the opera for a long time and we were thrilled that he was able to serve on our advisory committee."

She added: “In particular I remember how wonderful he was with everyone backstage, he posed for pictures and talked to everyone. We all enjoyed his visits very much.”

Prime Minister David Cameron led the tributes as the news broke earlier today.

The Witney MP tweeted: “Britain has lost a huge talent – someone millions came to feel was their own special friend.

“I grew up listening to him on the radio and watching him on TV.

“His wit and charm always made me smile.”

Former BBC Radio 2 colleague Jeremy Vine said on Twitter: “Truly one of the greatest we have ever seen. 

“And treated his colleagues like friends.”

Tony Blackburn added: “I can hardly believe my old friend Sir Terry Wogan has died. RIP Terry and thanks for being a friend.”

Fellow broadcasting DJ Lauren Laverne wrote: “Oh, man. RIP Sir Terry Wogan. Broadcasting hero”, while Julian Clary said: “RIP Terry Wogan. A witty, warm and wonderful man.”

Richard Osman, of TV’s Pointless, said: “So sad about Sir Terry Wogan. What a wonderful, clever, funny man. Did nothing but make the world a happier place.”

Cricketer Ian Botham wrote: “Very sad to hear the news about Sir Terry Wogan passing away this morning !! A wonderful man just the same rain or shine !! RIP”, while actor Sir Roger Moore added: “Oh no. It’s a sad weekend. BBC News - Sir Terry Wogan: Veteran broadcaster dies aged 77.”