Bill Turnbull presented his Classic FM show until just 12 days ago before ‘wonderful last week’ with his family
BILL Turnbull was broadcasting until just days before he died - fronting his Classic FM show.
The former BBC Breakfast host - whose death was announced today - last appeared on the radio on August 20.
He then shared what his wife called a "very special" final week with his family where they shared "some wonderful moments".
Early last month the TV presenter and journalist appeared in good spirits as he planned to get back doing what he loved after an extended break.
He told his followers: “Roll over Beethoven - BIll Turnbull’s back @Classicfm!
“Yes, I’m returning to host the most exciting classical music show on the airwaves this Saturday from 10 till 1. Don’t miss it!”
In October last year he announced he was taking a leave of absence from his show on Classic FM for health reasons.
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Announcing the news on social media, Bill said at the time he "need to focus on getting better" so would not be hosting his weekend programme, which he had fronted for five years.
In a tweet he said: “With great regret I am taking a leave of absence from my show at Classic FM for health reasons.
"The road has been a bit bumpy recently, and I need to take some time to focus on getting better.
“I’m sorry to do this, as I absolutely love doing the programme, and have hugely enjoyed the past five years.
"I am very grateful to friends and colleagues at Global for the love and support they have shown me.
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“And I will be back, just as soon as I can be.”
It was sadly announced today that Bill has died at the age of 66 following a “challenging and committed fight against prostate cancer”.
Today Bill’s family revealed his death, saying in a statement: "Following a challenging and committed fight against prostate cancer, Bill passed away peacefully at his home in Suffolk surrounded by his family on Wednesday, 31st August.
"Bill was diagnosed in 2017 and has had outstanding medical care from the Royal Marsden and Ipswich Hospitals, St Elizabeth Hospice and his GP.
";He was resolutely positive and was hugely buoyed by the support he received from friends, colleagues, and messages from people wishing him luck.
"It was a great comfort to Bill that so many more men are now testing earlier for this disease.
"Bill will be remembered by many as a remarkable broadcaster who brought warmth and humour into people's homes on BBC Breakfast and Classic FM.
"He was also a devoted Wycombe Wanderers fan and an ever-aspiring beekeeper.
"Bill was a wonderful husband and father to his three children; his family and friends will miss how he always made them laugh, and the generosity and love he shared with those around him."
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"Bill was a wonderful husband and father to his three children; his family and friends will miss how he always made them laugh, and the generosity and love he shared with those around him."
The presenter revealed his prostate cancer diagnosis in March 2018, saying he was diagnosed the previous November, and he detailed his treatment in a Channel 4 documentary called Staying Alive.