Actor and TV presenter Geoffrey Hayes has died at the age of 76.
The presenter, who passed away surrounded by his family, was best known for hosting Thames Television’s top-rated children’s show Rainbow.
His manager Phil Dale released a statement, saying, ''it is with great sadness that the family announce that Geoffrey passed away in hospital with his wife, Sarah, and son, Tom, by his side.''
Geoffrey was also known for his portrayal of Detective Constable Scatliff in the successful TV Series Z Cars for the BBC.
The statement continued, ''the family would like to express their thanks to the many fans over the years as it always gave Geoffrey so much pleasure to know that he and his Rainbow team had given so much fun to TV and theatre audiences over the years,''
''There will be no further comment at the moment and it would be appreciated if the privacy of Geoffrey’s family is respected at this most difficult time.''
He certainly did paint my childhood with a rainbow. #RIP Geoffrey Hayes pic.twitter.com/Emcze7aYIM
— Vintage Wullie (@YoorWullie) October 1, 2018
Geoffrey starred in Rainbow from 1973-1992, which centred around situations that would arise in the Rainbow House, where all the main characters lived, and would see the three puppets figght, with Geoffrey attempting to play mediator.
The show was filled with songs and guest appearances, and thematic episodes.
Fans have taken to social media to express their condolences.
One wrote, ''so sad to hear Geoffrey Hayes host of #Rainbow has died. Rest in peace and thanks for all the happy memories'' while another said, ''RIP Geoffrey. Thanks for making my childhood TV so brilliant! I loved watching Rainbow!''
Our thoughts are with Geoffrey's family.
