Dame Esther continued: “He was as nice off camera as he was in the studio on camera – funny, clever, charming, a very versatile presenter.
“When I first met him he was a producer, but it was clear that he had all the attributes of the best reporters.
“Viewers and listeners of That’s Life! and the many other radio and television programmes he presented will be equally sad.”
Dame Esther sent her “deepest sympathy” to his friends and family.
Slapstick Festival also shared their sorrow at the star’s death in a post on X [formerly Twitter] which said: “It is with deep sadness that we heard of the passing of Chris Serle, the beloved television and radio presenter.
“For 20 years Chris was tireless supporter of Slapstick Festival and a much loved friend. He will be sorely missed.”
