BBC Radio Ulster presenter Kim Lenaghan has died at the age of 61.
Lenaghan was best known for presenting weekend programme The Foodie, which saw her travel across Northern Ireland to discuss food and drink.
Interim director of BBC Northern Ireland Adam Smyth led tributes for the presenter, who had worked at the public broadcaster for 25 years.
Smyth said she had ‘a versatile and talented broadcaster who welcomed listeners into Saturdays and Sundays with her warm tones, sense of humour and impeccable music taste’.
‘Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to her husband Andrew, her family and many friends,’ he said.
BBC Newsline presenter Tara Mills added that she was ‘shocked and very sad’ at the news.
‘It’s hard to believe we will never again hear her infectious laugh or see her beaming smile in Broadcasting House. Condolences to her family,’ Mills tweeted.
A cause of death for Lenaghan was not given.
Tributes have continued to pour in for Lenaghan, with BBC’s Mark Simpson describing the presenter as a ‘ray of sunshine’, adding that he was ‘devastated’ to hear of her death.
‘On air, off air and in the corridors of the BBC. She brightened all our lives. We’re going to miss her,’ he said.
Marie-Louise Connolly, BBC NI health correspondent, said that there was ‘such sadness’ at the corporation at the news.
She wrote in her tribute: ‘Those who worked and knew her have lost a good friend. Such a kind, generous and gorgeous woman with an infectious laugh. Dearest Kim there are no words.’
A staff member at Arcadia Delicatessen in Belfast shared a sweet photo of him hugging Lenaghan when she visited their store, and shared his sadness at her death.
‘We’re heartbroken to hear of the loss of customer and dear friend Kim Lenaghan,’ the staff member wrote.
‘Her huge heart and conviviality manifested itself in her ability to host the perfect parties. Anyone invited to one of her bashes knew it would be a memorable occasion. Farewell The Foodie xxx.’
In addition to The Foodie, Lenaghan presented Arts Extra and This New Day on BBC Radio Ulster as well as special festive programmes.
Viewers will also know her for fronting shows such as The Saturday Magazine, The Late Show and Sounds Classical.
Lenaghan, who studied English at Queen’s University Belfast, joined BBC Northern Ireland in 1997 before working on Good Morning Ulster and Evening Extra at the station.
Her TV work included Country Times, Good Dog Bad Dog and BBC Proms In The Park.
Lenaghan is survived by her husband, Andrew Jones.
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