TV and radio presenter Cliff Michelmore dies at the age of 96

Cliff Michelmore, who was one of BBC television and radio's leading figures for decades, has died aged 96, the broadcaster has said.

The prolific presenter, who anchored coverage of the Apollo moon landings and several general elections, was best known as the long-running presenter of BBC magazine programme Tonight.

BBC director-general Tony Hall led tributes to the "outstanding broadcaster", who was likeable and possessed the skill to carry out hard-hitting interviews and also hold his nerve while covering events of great historical importance.

Michelmore, whose broadcasting career began in the Second World War, was made CBE in 1969.

He died at Petersfield Hospital in Hampshire after being admitted last week, his son told the BBC.