“Broadcasting legend” Nicholas Parsons has died after a short illness, aged 96.

Best known for radio game show Just A Minute, which he had hosted since its inception in 1967, Parsons was a veteran of television, radio and theatre, with a career in entertainment spanning more than 50 years.

A statement issued by his agent Jean Diamond, on behalf of his family, said: “Nicholas passed away in the early hours of 28 January after a short illness at the age of 96.

“He was with his beloved family who will miss him enormously and who wish to thank the wonderful staff at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital.”

Tributes are pouring in from stars, friends and those who worked with Parsons over the years.

Julia McKenzie, creative director at BBC Studios Audio, which produces Just a Minute, described the presenter as “a smart and passionate man who cared deeply” about his show and its devoted listeners.

“He was utterly charming and faultlessly professional,” she said.

“He was funny and kind in person and wonderful company. I can’t really believe he is gone today, he seemed indestructible. His legacy will live on with over 50 years of laughter-filled shows and the lasting friendships he made through his extraordinary career in show business.

“My thoughts are very much with Annie, his beloved wife and constant support and companion who attended every recording, and the rest of his family.

“Nicholas, you dear man, what a full life you lived – you really did bring much wit and joy to us all and we thank you for that – we miss you.”

BBC director-general Tony Hall said: “Very few people have done so much to entertain audiences over the decades, and no one deserves to be called a broadcasting legend more than Nicholas Parsons.

“His charm, inventive intellect and ability to create laughs were unsurpassed. Our thoughts are with his family and all who knew him.”

Born on 10 October 1923, in Grantham, Lincolnshire, his father was GP to the family of Baroness Thatcher.

After studying at St Paul’s School in London, he headed to Clydebank as an apprentice engineer, despite hopes of becoming an actor.

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