BBC The One Show hosts pay emotional live tribute following death of Bill Oddie

One last goodbye for Bill Oddie

Monday's episode, which also marked the show's 20th anniversary, was hosted by Alex Jones and Vernon Kay. Guests included The Odyssey actress Samantha Morton, alongside Fake or Fortune's Fiona Bruce and Phillip Mould.

Before the programme ended, Vernon took a moment to remember Oddie, who had appeared on The One Show several times over the years.

He said: "As well as starring in The Goodies, Bill also went on to present Springwatch. Our thoughts are with his friends and family."

News of Oddie's death had been announced earlier that day by his agent, David Foster, who paid tribute to his long career and lifelong dedication to wildlife.

In a statement, Foster said: "Bill was a multitalented celebrity – wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. Yet it was never fame that he valued."

He added that Oddie had encouraged people to respect and protect the natural world, saying he had taught others "the wonder of it" and had "protested, lobbied and campaigned for it."

Foster concluded: "He was my friend and it was an honour and a privilege to represent him for so many years. I will miss him terribly."

Among those also paying tribute was Springwatch presenter Chris Packham, who succeeded Oddie on the programme.

Writing on social media, Packham said: "Sadly we've not only lost a goodie, we've lost one of the besties."

He continued: "A renegade polymath with binoculars and a beard, Bill was invariably funny and occasionally furious. He loved birds and loathed those who harmed them."

"Critically he really knew his stuff, and his passion was true - he didn't just pick up his binoculars on telly, he went birding whenever he could. So he was genuine and that's why we loved him."