Radio 1 DJ Dave Lee Travis said Sir Jimmy was a “larger than life” character, adding: “We are all going to be worse off without him around.”

Comedian Ricky Gervais tweeted: "RIP Jimmy Saville My first guest on my first TV Show A proper British eccentric."

Opera singer Katherine Jenkins wrote: "Sad news Jimmy Saville has passed away.My sis & I always wanted a Jim'll Fix it Badge/Medal. Loved that show.Great memories."

BBC radio presenter Nicky Campbell posted: "SirJimmy Savile-a man so unique,a character so extraordinary, a personality so fascinating yet impenetrable. You could not have made him up."

Former deputy Labour leader Lord Prescott tweeted: “Sad to hear of Jimmy Savile’s death. Tireless fundraiser and a real character."

A Clarence House spokeswoman said: “The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall were saddened to hear of Jimmy Savile’s death and their thoughts are with his family at this time.”

The Apprentice's Lord Sugar wrote: 'Sad news on the death of Jimmy Savile very funny man and did loads of work for charity RIP.'

Radio presenter Paul Burnett told Sky News that Sir Jimmy's charity work was a 'two way street', adding: 'He didn't have a family as such and so when he took on a charity, that became his family

Roger Foster and Ian McKenna paid tribute to Sir Jimmy outside his flat. Mr Foster said: 'It is with deep sadness that I can tell you that our uncle Sir Jimmy Savile passed away quietly in his sleep during the night.

Carol Vorderman: 'RIP Jimmy Saville .... Leeds has lost a much loved son ... and we have lost a ray of sunshine .... #happymemories x