A regional journalist who went on to work in national roles at the BBC has died aged 68.

Tributes have been paid to Mike Ford, who worked as a reporter on the Somerset County Gazette in his hometown of Taunton.

Mike, pictured, spent eight years there before leaving to read theology at Bristol University.

He then joined the BBC, working for the Sunday programme on Radio 4 and the BBC World Service.

Among those he trained at the BBC was newsreader Sophie Rayworth.

Mike subsequently earned a doctorate in Christian spirituality from the University of Liverpool and lectured at Liverpool Hope University, before a spell as a researcher on Eamonn Andrews’ This is Your Life.

Mike’s brother Nigel told the Gazette: “Mike was such a gentle, kind and caring man with so much warmth, sincerity and love which we all appreciated. He saw the goodness in everyone.

“His unique personality and ministry were truly a gift. So many people, not just locally but across the globe, gained much comfort by Mike’s presence and compassion.

“Although so soon after mum’s passing, I am convinced he is now at peace and reunited with mum and dad. I shall miss him immensely.”