Tributes pour in to political 'titan' John Cole

The Prime Minister has led tributes from politicians and broadcasters to former BBC political editor John Cole, who has passed away at the age of 85 after a long illness.

David Cameron said he was "saddened" by the death of the distinctive Ulsterman who had "contributed so much to British political life", while Labour leader Ed Miliband said his generation "grew up watching John Cole".

Mr Cole held the influential BBC post from 1981 to 1992 and was celebrated for his impartial approach.

He died in his sleep yesterday at his home in Surrey, surrounded by his wife and family.

Former Prime Ministers Sir John Major and Gordon Brown both hailed Mr Cole as a titan of his profession.

Mr Brown said the broadcaster was a "soft-spoken giant of journalism", adding:

The BBC's Director-General Tony Hall said Mr Cole established enormous popularity and influence and became a "national institution".

"Everybody wanted to know what John Cole thought about what was happening in the world of politics. He took us through an extraordinary period of the Thatcher government. ... People loved him and wanted to hear what he had to say."

Former ITN Political Editor Michael Brunson has said he was in "awe" of his "fierce rival" during their years reporting from Westminster in the 1980s.

He explained how Mr Cole, who had begun his career in newspapers, was able to gain such good access to the corridors of power:

Mr Cole is survived by his wife Madge, four sons - Donald, Patrick, David and Michael - and nine grandchildren.

In a statement, his family said: