An entertainment writer who was “loved by everybody” on his patch has died aged 80.

Tributes have been paid to John Hannam, who worked as a journalist on the Isle of Wight for almost 50 years.

John, pictured, wrote for both the Isle of Wight County Press and Weekly Post and had his own show on Isle of Wight Radio.

County Press editor Alan Marriott has led the tributes.

He said: “John was so loved by everybody on the Isle of Wight.

“Nobody ever had a bad word to say about him and his professionalism and dedication in getting interviews with the top stars, from Judi Dench to Sir John Mills and Bruce Forsyth, was legendary.”

John died on Wednesday in St Mary’s Hospital, in the island’s capital Newport, after a period of ill health.

He is survived by his children Sean and Caroline.

John’s wife Heather died 15 years ago, and his companion in recent years has been Roberta Crismass.

His family told the County Press in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we must let you know that John Hannam has died after a short illness.

“John, who was a well-known and well-loved local journalist and broadcaster on the Isle of Wight for almost 50 years, passed away peacefully in his sleep with his family at his bedside.

“Please respect the privacy of John’s family and friends at this difficult time.

“There will be a further announcement on how his life will be celebrated in due course.”