TRIBUTES have been paid to light entertainment legend Keith Chegwin after he passed away earlier today.

Keith, affectionately known as Cheggers, died at the age of 60 after a long battle with a progressive lung condition which, his family said, "rapidly worsened towards the end of this year."

The beloved star of stage and screen was a regular at the Wyvern Theatre.

Keith played Buttons in the theatre's production of Cinderella in Christmas 2011, which was the best-selling pantomime the theatre has ever had.

Then, back by popular demand, he returned to play Wishy Washy in Aladdin in 2012 and Silly Billy in Jack and the Beanstalk in 2013.

He was very fond of the Wyvern and loved the rapturous reception he received from the Swindon audience.

In 2012, he said: "Panto at the Wyvern Theatre has become part of my Christmas routine now – Swindon’s my Christmas home.

"The town and all the people I meet have made me so welcome and it feels like my second home.

"I love working with Derek and the whole team at the theatre and have been bowled over by the audiences.

"Pantomime is the most magical show you can be in and I love being part of Swindon’s Christmas."

Derek Aldridge, Wyvern Theatre director, said: "On behalf of everyone at the Wyvern Theatre, may I say how sad we are to learn of the death of our friend Keith Chegwin.

"I have many happy memories of working, laughing and chatting with Keith and our audiences loved him."

The Wyvern's Twitter account tweeted: "We're incredibly sad to learn of the passing of our friend Keith Chegwin.

"Keith was adored by our audiences during his Wyvern pantomimes and will be remembered for the fun, laughter and genuine interest he showed to all involved in our productions.

"We send love to his family."

Richard Loftus, former marketing and sales manager of Swindon Theatres, said: "I have so many fond memories of working with Keith Chegwin during his sensational run of pantomimes at the Wyvern Theatre.

"From press launches, where he rode a pantomime elephant at Hongxin Oriental Buffet, to photo calls, where he posed with greyhounds at the Abbey Stadium, to Christmas light switch-ons, wearing his red velvet suit.

"More than just a true professional, he was kind and generous with everyone he came into contact with. He will be truly missed.”

Keith became a household name by presenting Multi-Coloured Swap Shop, Cheggers Plays Pop, and Saturday Superstore.


The enthusiastic entertainer was a familiar sight on early morning shows This Morning, GMTV and The Big Breakfast, had a memorable cameo in Extras, and featured in reality TV like Dancing on Ice and Celebrity Big Brother.


He leaves his wife Maria and two children.