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ITV News Entertainment reporter Rishi Davda looks back at Bill Oddie’s career, after it was announced the comedian and wildlife presenter had died at the age of 85 <\/p>\n
Wildlife presenter and Goodies star Bill Oddie has died at the age of 85, his agent has said.<\/p>\n
Oddie, who found fame in the 1970s as a member of comic trio The Goodies alongside Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden, died on Saturday.<\/p>\n
He went on to host programmes for the BBC, including Birding With Bill Oddie, Bill Oddie Goes Wild, Springwatch and Autumnwatch.<\/p>\n
A statement from his friend and agent David Foster said: \u201cIt is with deep sadness that I announce the passing of Bill Oddie, the country\u2019s best-loved birder.<\/p>\n
\u201cBill was a multi-talented celebrity – wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist.<\/p>\n
\u201cYet it was never fame that he valued. Instead he encouraged us to respect and protect the environment.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe taught us the wonder of it. He protested, lobbied and campaigned for it. He was also president of the Northumberland Wildlife Trust and supported numerous other conservation organisations.”<\/p>\n
Naturalist and TV presenter Chris Packham described Oddie as an “utter joy to be with”.<\/p>\n
Paying tribute, he said: “Bill was invariably funny and occasionally furious. He loved birds and loathed those who harmed them.<\/p>\n
“He was delightfully unpredictable, sparky, smart and at times a bit spiky. <\/p>\n
“Sadly we\u2019ve not only lost a goodie, we\u2019ve lost one of the besties.” <\/p>\n