Newspaper columnist and broadcaster Rod Liddle dies aged 66

Newspaper columnist and broadcaster Rod Liddle has died aged 66 after a short illness.

Liddle's children paid tribute to their father, who they described as their guide "on how to live an extraordinary life", while CEO of News UK, Rebekah Brooks, called him "an inimitable journalistic force."

Brooks added that "he challenged conventional thinking and left an indelible mark on British journalism."

Liddle, a columnist for the Sun and the Sunday Times, died at The James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough on Sunday evening.

A former editor of BBC Radio 4's flagship Today programme, he also had a weekly column in the Spectator, as well as a show on Times Radio.

His children, Wilder, Tyler and Emmy, said: "We're all very saddened and shocked at the sudden passing of our wonderful father.

"He raised us much as you might imagine, to be inquisitive, brave and always humorous.

"Even in hospital in the last few weeks, he consistently held the room and never let the awful situation show.

"He has left a legacy that we are all incredibly proud of, he will always be our guide on how to live an extraordinary life."

Brooks said: "Everyone at News UK is deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death of Rod Liddle.

"Rod was an inimitable journalistic force – brilliant, provocative and immensely talented – whose sharp wit and uncompromising voice graced our pages and airwaves for decades.

"Rod will be greatly missed by all his friends and colleagues at News, as well as by his many readers, listeners and viewers.

"Our thoughts and sincerest condolences are with his family and loved ones."

Ben Taylor, editor of The Sunday Times, said: "Rod Liddle had a wonderful way with words and used his unique talent to speak for the readers, highlighting the cant and absurdity that bedevils modern life. He was also supremely entertaining and for years his column was the first that many turned to every Sunday. We will miss him desperately."

Victoria Newton, editor-in-chief of The Sun, said: "Rod was a brilliant, fearless columnist who was much loved by all at The Sun.

"A champion of press freedom, no topic was off-limits, and his writing – as funny as it was excoriating – was simply exceptional.

"A terrific observer of the frailties of our political class, he will be remembered for his razor sharp wit and for his huge intellect.

"But on The Sun floor he will also be remembered for his warmth and humour and for the belly laughs we had at his wildly entertaining lunches and dinners where he would hold court.

"He will be hugely missed by The Sun's staff and