TV bosses have paid an emotional tribute to Eggheads star Dave Rainford, describing him as 'one of the all time great quizzers'.
Dave, whose death was announced over the weekend, was one of the resident quizzers on the popular BBC daytime show.
His remarkable quizzing prowess earned him the nickname 'Tremendous Knowledge.'
Today 12 Yard Productions, the TV company which makes Eggheads, said Dave, from Withington, was 'loved by everyone on the team and will be missed very deeply indeed'.
In a statement, 12 Yard added: "Not only was Dave one of the all time great quizzers, he was also the most kind and generous soul and the most congenial company.
"His beaming smile and booming laugh made every day a little bit brighter.
"They really did break the mould when they made TKD.
"He was loved by everyone on the Eggheads team and will be missed very deeply indeed."
A BBC spokesperson said: "We’re very sorry to hear of the passing of Dave Rainford who was a phenomenal quizzing force on Eggheads.
"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
A well known character in south Manchester, he said he was even banned from the quiz machines in some pubs such was his skill at quizzing.
On Saturday, Eggheads host Jeremy Vine was among those to pay tribute.
Writing on Twitter, Jeremy said: "I'm very sad to hear that one of the Eggheads has died.
"Dave 'Tremendous Knowledge' Rainford, famous for being banned from pub quiz machines in Manchester, was the best company after a recording: always fun and sociable.
"I never saw him angry or ungenerous, not once. RIP."
Shaun Wallace, from ITV quiz show The Chase tweeted: "Terrible to hear the news of Dave Rainford’s passing.
"Great person and a tremendous quizzer. He will be missed greatly.
Read more of today's top stories here
"Thoughts and prayers with his family and friends at this time."
And the Victoria pub in Withington, where Dave was a regular, tweeted: "The Victoria is saddened to hear of the passing of Dave Rainford.
"A very much loved customer and friend and we send our condolences to Dave's family and his friends.
"I'm sure we will all be raising a glass or 2 or 3 for Dave over the next few weeks."
