19/01/2009

Children's TV Presenter Hart Dies, Aged 83

Artist and children's television presenter Tony Hart has died at the age of 83.

Hart, who appeared on art programmes for nearly 50 years, died in the early hours of Sunday morning, his agent Roc Renals confirmed.

The presenter of shows which inspired children to paint – including Vision On, Hartbeat and Take Hart – had suffered from health problems for a number of years, including two strokes.

He retired from television in 2001.

Mr Hart's agent said: "I was for many years his best friend, agent, manager and publicist.

"He suffered two strokes many years ago and his health declined since then."

Fellow artist Rolf Harris paid tribute to Hart, describing him as a "very gentle and talented guy".

He added: "He enthused and inspired a whole generation of kids into creating their own works of art, simple or complex."

Tony Hart served as an officer in the 1st Gurkha Rifles in World War II, before he joined a course at Maidstone College of Art. He was a supporter of The Gurkha Welfare Trust for many years.

Trust Director Colonel William Shuttlewood said he regularly donated pictures to the trust, which were auctioned and raised "substantial" amounts for charity.

He said: "I am sorry he has gone. He was a lovely chat and was very keen to make sure we were supported properly.

"Tony Hart was very quick to recognise his service with the Gurkhas and was an avid supporter of the Gurkha Welfare Trust."

(JM/BMcC)

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