Cartoon Cavalcade presenter Glen Michael dies aged 99

Children's TV presenter Glen Michael has died aged 99.

His family said he passed away peacefully at his home in South Ayrshire after a short illness.

He hosted Glen Michael's Cartoon Cavalcade for nearly three decades on STV, beginning in 1966 and running until December 1992.

STV described him as a "legend" and said he would be remembered as a "wonderful performer and personality."

Before the programme launched in 1966, Michael believed he had messed up his audition after smiling constantly due to nerves.

But his approach was liked by programme bosses, who offered him a five-week contract at £14 a week.

Over the decades the show became a hit as Michael introduced cartoons, read birthday greetings and chatted to on-screen companions - including Paladin the lamp and his dogs Rudi and Rusti.

In 1975 Cavalcade won the Scottish ITV programme of the year award from the Radio Industries Club of Scotland.

Bobby Hain, STV's managing director for audiences, said: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Glen Michael has passed away.

"Glen was a wonderful performer and personality and we know that many viewers will have very fond memories of him.

"He was an STV legend, with Glen Michael's Cavalcade a particular favourite for children across Scotland during its 26 year run.

"Our thoughts are with his family at this time and we send them our deepest condolences."

Michael was also one of the original DJs when Radio Clyde launched in the 1970s.

He was born in Devon and named Cecil Edward Buckland, later changing his name to Glen Michael when he decided to try for a career in showbusiness.

As a teenager he went to London to try his luck as an entertainer, and later served in the RAF during World War II.

During this time he met his wife Beryl, who he married in 1947 and who he also worked with in an onstage double act - Michael and Raye.

His life changed when he moved to the Scotland in the early 1950s for a six week run with Scottish comedian Jack Milroy.

The six week run stretched into 13 years of touring and performing in theatres across the country, along with TV appearances alongside Milroy and Rikki Fulton's famed double act Francie and Josie.

When Milroy moved to London, Michael, who had settled in Prestwick, was asked to audition for Cartoon Cavalcade.

He continued to be busy until his death, recently recording a video as an ambassador for service veterans charity Erskine.

He also supported Age UK with their charitable work.

His wife died several years ago but he is survived by his children Yonnie and Christopher and a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His family said they were thankful to all the medical professionals and at home carers who helped look after him.