TV star and magician Paul Daniels has died aged 77 after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

The entertainer was at his Berkshire home with wife Debbie when he passed away in the early hours of Thursday.

A statement from his publicist said: "One of our most beloved entertainers, Paul Daniels, has passed away at the age of 77.

"The TV star, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour earlier this year, passed away peacefully at home with Debbie at his side in the early hours of this morning.

"Debbie and the family would like to thank everyone for their support and asks that their privacy be respected at this sad time."

Remember Paul Daniels’ life with our gallery of photos above or here.

Earlier this month, Ms McGee thanked fans for their "wonderful messages" of support.

When Daniels fell at home in February, he was rushed to hospital, suspected of having suffered a stroke. He was later diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour.

McGee wrote on Twitter: "I wish I could answer all your wonderful messages individually but there are so many. They are all appreciated so much.

"Paul and I had no (idea) of how people felt. Truly amazing. Thank you."

One of the entertainer's three sons, Martin Daniels, had told the Sunday Mirror the family did not know how long his father had left.

He told the newspaper: "It is unbearably difficult. He has said before 'When It's your time, it's your time' and that's how he is trying to face up to things."

His son Gary Daniels said on Twitter: "It is with incredible sadness that I can confirm that Dad, Paul Daniels, passed away over night."

The tweet included a picture of a rabbit in a magician's hat with a tear it its eye.

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Celebrities have also started posting messages of tribute to the late magician on Twitter.

Britain's Got Talent magician Jamie Raven said: "I am so sorry to hear about the passing of @ThePaulDaniels all my thoughts are with @thedebbiemcgee & family".

Comedian Leigh Francis said: "Sad news about Paul Daniels".

Paul Chuckle, one half of TV's Chuckle Brothers also posted on Twitter: "Sad to hear of the death of Paul Daniels RIP Paul our thoughts are with the family.”

Musical theatre's Darren Day said the late magician was "a nice man".

"RIP God bless @ThePaulDaniels Thoughts are with his family and friends. He was a nice man x".

Mark Linsey, acting director of BBC Television said: "Paul was an outstanding showman and one of the great entertainers of BBC television.

"His long-running magic show delighted viewers, as did his BBC One quiz shows Odd One Out, Wipeout and Every Second Counts and children's favourite Wizbit. He will be missed and our thoughts are with his family."

Musician Rick Wakeman tweeted: "I am so sad at so many friends passing away. Paul Daniels and Debbie were great friends & a wonderful couple. I shall miss Paul greatly."

Before his death, the magician encouraged members of the public to donate money for research into cancer.

A gofundme page to raise funds was set up by his son Gary.

A message on Daniels' official Twitter page said: "If everyone donated just £1 we could give over £56000 to charity, this is to help others, not me."