Lorraine Kelly leads tributes to Dale Winton following TV star’s shock death at 62

The world was left shocked recently by the heartbreaking news that TV presenter Dale Winton had passed away at his home in London.

The former Supermarket Sweep host's agent, Jan Kennedy, confirmed that the 62-year-old had passed away on Wednesday.

While she did not confirm the star's cause of death, she asked for privacy for his family at the difficult time. She said, "While we know many will share this terrible loss, we ask that you respect the family's privacy at this time of grief."

Since the news of Dale's death was announced, many celebrity friends of the star, including Carol Vorderman and James Martin, have flocked to social media to pay tribute to him.

Davina McCall was one of the first star's to comment on his death. She wrote on her Twitter, 'I am so so so sad to hear about Dale Winton 💔 a lovely, warm, kind, sensitive, generous soul with a touch of naughty ! RIP 🙏🏻'

On her morning show, Lorraine Kelly also commented on the shocking news - explaining that she initially thought the announcement was a hoax.

She explained, “I got in and got the text and you see it and you go into denial, and think this can’t be real. I thought it was a hoax. Honestly, as you know you get that sometimes on social media, and you think for goodness sake, it’s just horrible.”

The TV host also paid tribute to Dale's memorable work on Supermarket Sweep, perhaps his most well-known work. She said, "He totally made it his own - I also loved Hole in the Wall, which only he could make work.

"He was a good guy and there wasn't another side to him."

Lorraine continued, "We remember him with huge affection and when we see those clips and pictures, you just laugh."

Carol Vorderman also paid respect to her late friend, writing, 'I'm so very shocked and sad to read the news about our Dale. He was a joy to be with at all times. RIP Dale ♥️ you will be missed so much'

Dale's close friend David Walliams also paid tribute, sharing fond memories of his time with the star. He admitted that he was "heartbroken" over the news of Dale's death.

Former Loose Women stars Sherrie Hewson and Jane McDonald also took to social media following the news. Sherrie wrote, "So very sad about the gorgeous Dale Winton worked with him many times ! 62 is no age it’s hard to believe he’s gone . Good night lovely man xxxxx". While Jane said, 'I’m so sad to hear about the loss of the wonderful Dale Winton. Xx'

Celebrity chef James Martin also made sure to remember the entertainer. He paid his respects, saying, 'So sad to hear the news Dale Winton has passed away. Thoughts for his family he was a gent to work with. RIP'

Dale made his name as a presenting legend, hosting the game show Supermarket Sweep. However, he also won over fans with lottery show In It To Win It, and game show, Hole in the Wall.

Most recently, Dale had made a Channel 5 show called Dale Winton's Florida Fly Drive. The programme is set to air in June.

The TV host also made the headlines after coming out as gay in 2002, in his autobiography.

Our thoughts are with Dale's friends and family at this difficult time.