It is with great sorrow that we confirm that Des passed away on Saturday 14 November, 2020. He had been admitted to hospital, a week earlier following a fall at his home in Buckinghamshire. He was recovering well in hospital and had been in great spirits and looking forward to going home. Unfortunately, on Saturday evening his condition suddenly deteriorated and he drifted peacefully away in his sleep.
Des, who was 88, was so well loved by absolutely everyone. He was a joy to work with – he was talented, fun, positive, enthusiastic, kind and a total professional. He loved life, and considered enthusiasm almost as important as oxygen. He adored his family - they were everything to him. He is survived by his wife Jodie, their son Adam and Des’s four daughters, Karen, TJ, Samantha and Kristina.
Des was the ultimate Entertainer. He loved being on stage – entertaining a live audience. He always said the sound of laughter was like the sound of heavenly music. He had a fabulous international TV career, presenting his own prime-time TV shows for over 45 years. On stage he starred at almost every leading venue throughout the world.
Thank you: Des’s wife, Jodie and the family are deeply moved and so grateful for all the wonderful tributes and messages of condolence.