London radio presenter George Webley dies
Tributes have been paid to the London radio presenter who composed the theme tune to Have I Got News For You? and The Office after his sudden death.
George Webley, 53, better known as Big George, died in the early hours of Saturday after collapsing at his home in Milton Keynes.
He had hosted the weekday overnight programme on BBC London for five years and was the partner of fellow presenter Jo Good. As well as being a composer he won a Sony Award in 2002 for best music presenter and had worked for Three Counties Radio.
A statement on his family's website said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Big George Webley. Cause of death cannot be confirmed as we are awaiting the coroner's report. Our hearts go out to all those who share our loss." BBC London 94.9 editor David Robey said: "Big George lived up to his name in every sense, a larger than life character with a radio personality to match.
"He was a truly distinctive broadcaster who will be terribly missed by his many devoted listeners and his colleagues."
Webley was also a band leader who worked around the world on more than 500 hours of live TV and had presented programmes for BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Sky.
On Twitter, comedian Anthony Davis said: "Sad to hear of the death of talk radio host Big George. A genuine personality who will be missed by many." BBC 6 Music presenter Gideon Coe wrote: "Big George knew how to put together a music programme. Played what he wanted and believed in."
