TV personality Dale Winton has died, aged 62, prompting tributes from people who knew him in the county.

Winton was perhaps best known as the host of Supermarket Sweep, which was recorded at the Maidstone Studios when it was revived in 2007.

He died at his home yesterday after a long period of ill health.

No details have been revealed about the cause of his death.

His long-term agent Jan Kennedy said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that we can confirm the passing of Dale Winton who died at home earlier today.

“While we know many will share this terrible loss, we ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this time of grief.”

kmfm presenter Tony Blackburn was among those who paid tribute to the star.

He tweeted: "So sorry to hear that Dale Winton has passed away.I knew him well and he was lovely man. R.I.P."

Geoff Miles, chairman and co-owner of Maidstone Studios, directed Winton when he hosted the National Lottery in the mid to late 1990s and also when Supermarket Sweep made its return in Kent.

He said: "He was very kind and warm hearted.

"He was also a professional who would do his homework and make sure he got it right.

"When we used to do the National Lottery we used to shake hands before we went on air and then he'd give me a hug.

"To go live was quite an adrenaline buzz and he was hugely popular. Then after we would all go for a drink."

Mr Miles said his death came as a complete shock.

He said: "When I heard the news I texted a mutual friend who had seen him at the weekend who said he didn't seem ill.

"Like all those at the top he had his ups and downs but he never came over like that to me.

"We had a lot of laughs. He was fun to be with."

Several celebrities have paid tribute to Winton.

The model Nancy Sorrell, who appeared on a special edition of Supermarket Sweep with husband Vic Reeves, was among those who tweeted about the news.

Sorrell, who lives in Charing, near Ashford, tweeted: "So sad to hear about Dale Winton. He was such a lovely man. #RIPDaleWinton."

Paddy McGuinness, who presents ITV show Take Me Out at the Maidstone Studios, tweeted: "Sad news. Back in the day Supermarket Sweep was the programme to watch.

"Dale Winton was the perfect host, he made it all look effortless. RIP."