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Blue Peter presenter John Noakes dies aged 83

It has sadly been confirmed that beloved television presenter John Noakes has passed away at the age of 83 following a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

Noakes shot to fame in the 1960s as the much-loved host of BBC One show ‘Blue Peter’, becoming the longest-serving ‘Blue Peter’ presenter after remaining on the show throughout the 70s and 80s.

John was the much-loved presenter of Blue Peter throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s.
John was the much-loved presenter of Blue Peter throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s.

Confirming the star’s passing in a statement, his family said: “John Noakes, died peacefully on Sunday morning May 28th. He had endured and suffered from Alzheimer’s over recent years and whilst he will be greatly missed by his wife, family and many friends his release from continuing ill health must be counted as a blessing.

“His many escapades with his faithful companion Shep, during his time with Blue Peter, will live on in many peoples memories and that is how his family would like him remembered.”

Noakes entertained ‘Blue Peter’ viewers as he tried to control the show’s dog Shep over his years onscreen, with Noakes’ unofficial catchphrase being: ‘Get down, Shep!”

The star’s sad death comes almost two years after he sparked concern by going missing near his home in Majorca, his wife Vicky confirmed that he was suffering from Alzheimer’s and had been for a number of years after Noakes was eventually found in a storm drain, seriously dehydrated.

Speaking at the time, Vicky explained: “You learn to live and cope with things. But this is a little different this time and I am concerned because it is the hottest day of the year so far here.

“If he is wandering around, he’ll get more confused as he gets more dehydrated.”

The star’s wife Vicky revealed that he had Alzheimer’s after her went missing almost two years ago.
The star’s wife Vicky revealed that he had Alzheimer’s after her went missing almost two years ago.

John Noakes first joined ‘Blue Peter’ in December 1965 and remained on the show for more than 12 years.

After leaving ‘Blue Peter’ he launched a career writing children’s books as well as making several other television appearances.