Ground Force and Homes Under the Hammer star Tommy Walsh has died aged 69, his agent confirmed on Monday. The news was announced during Monday's The One Show, where presenters Alex Jones and Roman Kemp paid tribute to the DIY expert.
His agent said in a statement: "Tommy died peacefully after a long illness surrounded by his family. As this has only just happened, we would ask everyone to please respect the family's privacy."
One Show tribute
During Monday's episode (9 November), Alex Jones shared the news after a pre-recorded segment on gardening and volunteers helping others with their gardens ahead of Children in Need on Friday.
She said: "On the subject of gardening, we have to mention today's sad news that Ground Force presenter and DIY expert Tommy Walsh has died at the age of 69. He helped so many people over the years and our thoughts are very much with his family and friends, of course."
Career and colleague tributes
Walsh starred alongside Charlie Dimmock and Alan Titchmarsh on Ground Force, as well as with Martin Roberts on Homes Under the Hammer. He also appeared on Clean It, Fix It.
Martin Roberts led tributes earlier on Monday with an emotional social media post, saying: "I am so, so very sad to hear that my friend and colleague Tommy Walsh has just passed away. Fifteen years ago gave up a day of his time for free to help build a shed for my disabled cousin, who idolised him. Harry still talks about that day."
"But it's just one example of the huge heart of this mountain of a man, who will be very dearly missed Heavens waiting room is currently having a makeover. God bless you Tommy."
Fan reactions
Fans also shared their tributes in the comments, with one writing: "Gutted, such a lovely gentle giant…always loved watching him on ground force then on homes under the hammer…very sad day rip Tommy."
Another said: "I absolutely loved Tommy on his many TV shows from Ground Force, Clean it Fix It & of course, Homes Under The Hammer. His knowledge, skills and experience really shined throughout. Great person and I'm glad the TV executives gave him plenty of air time."
Someone else wrote: "Our heartfelt deepest sympathy and condolences to you and the Hammer team on the heartbreaking news about Tommy Walsh." Another commented: "Oh that's so sad, I found him almost like a comfort watching him on television. So knowledgeable and kind. Thinking of you x."
The One Show airs weeknights from 7pm on BBC One and iPlayer.
