Much-loved Isle of Wight entertainment journalist John Hannam has died aged 80.

John, who wrote for the County Press and Weekly Post and had his own show on Isle of Wight Radio, passed away on Wednesday in St Mary's Hospital after a period of ill health. 

He was best known for his interviews with stars of stage and screen, local entertainment legends and sporting heroes.

One of his best known projects was the Isle of Wight Amateur Drama Awards, which ran for several years.

Until recently, he was a keen runner and in his earlier years was a good footballer and cricketer.

The family said in a statement today: "It is with great sadness that we must let you know that John Hannam has died after a short illness.

"John, who was a well-known and well-loved local journalist and broadcaster on the Isle of Wight for almost 50 years, passed away peacefully in his sleep with his family at his bedside.

‘’Please respect the privacy of John’s family and friends at this difficult time. There will be a further announcement on how his life will be celebrated in due course.’’

Alan Marriott, editor of the County Press, said: "John was so loved by everybody on the Isle of Wight. Nobody ever had a bad word to say about him and his professionalism and dedication in getting interviews with the top stars, from Judi Dench to Sir John Mills and Bruce Forsyth, was legendary."

Before devoting his life to media, he had been a salesman for United Biscuits and Gould, Hibberd and Randall.

John is survived by his two children Sean and Caroline. His wife Heather died 15 years ago.

His companion in recent years has been Bertie Crismass.