BBC radio presenter Dave Llewellyn has sadly died aged just 57 after a "short illness". He was best known for his work on traffic and travel on BBC Radio Tees, where he worked for more than two decades, and was the "eye in the sky" reporter in a small plane above the area. His daughter Amy confirmed his death in a statement, which hailed her dad as "incredibly modest and generous, [who[ always found time for friends and strangers alike".

"Outside of his work he loved his family and his music. His true talent shone through while he was playing his keyboards, synthesisers and bass," she continued. "He was the most loving father and husband, always going out of his way to make us happy.

"He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him, especially our beloved dog Cupid who always saw a taste of his generosity, usually in the form of a shared sausage sandwich."

Tributes have poured in from his former colleagues, with radio presenter Amy Oakden saying on air during her Friday breakfast show: "I always remember Dave because he was just so kind and lovely. He was a legend."

Radio Tees producer Sarah Robinson broke down in tears on the airwaves as she said: "What do I say about Dave?

"Worst taste in shirts I have ever seen, he wore terrible shirts, made bad coffee, the worst coffee I had ever tasted in my whole life, but Dave was relentlessly cheerful and positive and never came into the office without having a smile on his face."

BBC Radio Tees said in a statement: "We're really sad to say that our brilliant colleague and friend, Dave Llewellyn, has passed away following a short illness.

"You may know Dave best as being the voice of traffic and travel in the region for more than 20 years, as well as co-presenting a popular gardening show on Sunday mornings before becoming an excellent producer at BBC Radio Tees. We send our love to his wife, Ange, his daughter, Amy and all of his friends and family. You'll be missed, Dave."

Dave leaves behind his daughter Amy and his wife Ange, along with their dog Cupid.